The AT&T cell phone signal has gotten much stronger in Ave Maria since the carrier activated service on the new cell phone tower just outside South Park.
AT&T says in a news release that the new cell tower (right), which it calls a "stealth" facility because it is much smaller than many towers, is designed to improve service in a two-mile radius.
Basic voice and data service is available now, and AT&T spokeswoman Kelly Starling says that 3G data service is planned for 2010 with a "target time frame" of the second quarter.
Tom Sansbury, a vice-president with Barron Collier, says that both AT&T and Verizon now provide service from the tower, which can accommodate up to five different carriers.
Some subscribers to Verizon Wireless in Ave Maria have reported little or no improvement in the carrier's service. Inquiries to Verizon have not been returned.
AT&T says in a news release that the new cell tower (right), which it calls a "stealth" facility because it is much smaller than many towers, is designed to improve service in a two-mile radius.