GCI, Alaska Communications plan new network

JUNEAU (AP) — Two Alaska telecommunications companies on Tuesday announced a joint venture that they say should create the fastest wireless network in the state.

The announcement by General Communication Inc., or GCI, and Alaska Communications Systems Group Inc. comes as Verizon Wireless prepares to enter the Alaska market.

GCI and Alaska Communications said they had signed agreements to form The Alaska Wireless Network LLC, which would build and operate a statewide wireless system for GCI and Alaska Communications customers with the companies pooling their wireless assets, like cell sites. GC...