Media contact: media@utc.wa.gov or 360-664-1116
Docket number: UT-250544
Settlement commits over $80M in new broadband investments for Washington
LACEY, Wash. — Today, Utilities and Transportation Commission staff approved a settlement agreement allowing Qwest Corporation or CenturyLink QC (CenturyLink) to transfer a portion of its fiber‑to‑the‑home network to Forged Fiber 37, LLC (AT&T). The agreement includes a series of customer‑focused protections and investments aimed at enhancing voice service quality and broadband expansion across the state.
The decision follows input from residents with concerns about service outages, missed repair appointments, and aging infrastructure. Under the terms of the settlement, CenturyLink must meet new staffing and maintenance standards for the next seven years. This includes required annual spending on repairs and a one‑time, $2 million investment to upgrade outdated phone facilities.
Customers enrolled in CenturyLink Price for Life plans will keep their current rates. The company must also provide a temporary replacement line at no cost to customers who have a service outage lasting 10 days. The settlement requires a $40 credit for customers when a technician misses a confirmed appointment and restricts service disconnections for customers who have been without service for 30 days or longer.
As part of the acquisition, AT&T must invest at least $80 million over the next two years to expand high‑speed fiber broadband in Washington and report the progress to regulators. CenturyLink must continue to offer standalone voice services and will continue to offer voice service over the transferred fiber network to current customers at no extra cost. CenturyLink must also remove copper voice service equipment when the older technology has been retired and unused for six months.
CenturyLink and AT&T will submit regular reports to the commission to ensure ongoing compliance and maintain transparency. These measures help protect customers during the transition and support long‑term improvements in Washington’s telecommunications infrastructure.
About the UTC
The UTC regulates the rates and services of telephone companies in Washington and promotes a competitive telecommunications marketplace. The commission ensures regulated companies provide safe, equitable, and reliable service at reasonable prices while earning a fair profit. The UTC does not regulate broadband, cellular, cable, or internet rates.
About CenturyLink
CenturyLink is the largest local exchange telephone company in Washington, serving approximately 650,000 residential and business access lines.
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