January 15, 2002 -- Choice One Communications (Nasdaq: CWON), an Integrated Communications Provider offering facilities-based voice and data telecommunications services, web hosting, design and development to small and medium-sized businesses, announced that it has activated its fiber ring in Albany, New York. The intra-city fiber ring was recently acquired from Fibertech Networks, a Rochester-based company that is pioneering the design and building of fiber networks within mid-sized U.S. cities.

"Intra-city fiber is a key component in our smart-build network deployment," said Kevin Dickens, Choice One's co-chief operating officer."The successful deployment of our Albany fiber ring enables us to optimize our network costs, enhances the quality and reliability of the services we offer, and provides the necessary bandwidth to support the continued growth of our business. The new fiber ring dramatically reduces our reliance on the incumbent provider and significantly strengthens our competitive advantage in the market."

Dickens also mentioned that the timing of the fiber deployment is especially advantageous as Choice One recently closed on its acquisition of assets and clients from FairPoint Communications Solutions Corp., many of which are in the Capital Region and will be served by the new fiber ring.

The Albany fiber ring is the fourth to be activated through Choice One's partnership with Fibertech Networks. The company previously deployed fiber rings in Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo.

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