Pasadena CC Signs Verizon to Build Voice-Data Network

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 02/26/08

Pasadena City College in Los Angeles County has signed a contract with Verizon Business to implement a voice over IP (VoIP) communications and wireless Internet access under a two-year, $6.7 million agreement.

Verizon will help the college migrate from its existing time division multiplex (TDM) network to VoIP. The network will deliver voice and data, as well as video for the campus, which has 30,000 students and faculty. The initiative involves the installation of advanced switching gear and a unified communications system for voice mail and e-mail, as well as on-site technical support and managed and professional services. Additionally, Verizon will provide the student population with wireless network access throughout the campus, which covers 53 acres and 30 buildings. Installation of the new converged IP network has already begun.

"The district realizes the vital role that an institution's network infrastructure plays in meeting its mission and goals," said Robert Cody, assistant dean of computing services.

"More than two years were spent studying and reviewing possible vendors for this critical upgrade. Verizon Business was selected because it offered an outstanding combination of price, expertise and a proven ability to work collaboratively." said Paulette J. Perfumo, PCC president. "While this was initially slated as an 18-month project, contractors are ahead of schedule and look to have all installations completed within a year."