ROCHESTER, N.Y. Nov. 16 -- Global Crossing North America has signed a deal that makes it the sole provider of voice and data services for Eschelon Telecom Inc., a provider of integrated communications based in Minneapolis. The $100-million agreement calls for Global Crossing to provide asynchronous transfer mode and Internet protocol services for Eschelon Telecom. Global Crossing has made a $5-million equity investment in Eschelon to help expand the company's integrated voice and data services network build-out as well. Global Crossing's investment brings Eschelon's total capital raised to $267 million.
We have formed this strategic partnership with Global Crossing because they are an industry leader among broadband providers, said Richard A. Smith, president and COO of Eschelon. The support and financial backing of Global Crossing will help us continue our business plan which includes expanding our existing sales force; moving into additional markets; and installing additional local/long distance switches, data switches, and integrated digital subscriber line equipment in our planned collocated central offices throughout our service footprint.