2008 Republican National Convention Names Qwest Official Communications Provider
Qwest to Provide Range of Services for September Event in Minneapolis-Saint Paul
(SAINT PAUL, Minn.) - To help meet its goal of holding the most tech-savvy convention in history, the Committee on Arrangements (COA) for the 2008 Republican National Convention today announced that Qwest Communications International Inc. (NYSE: Q) will serve as the Official Communications Provider for the Sept. 1-4 event.
As the Official Communications Provider, Qwest will be the exclusive provider of high-speed Internet as well as voice and data lines for the COA. Qwest also will provide hosting services and 24/7 network management and technical support.
"Qwest will be a terrific partner in planning the 2008 Republican National Convention, and we are pleased to have them on board as our Official Communications Provider," said convention President and Chief Executive Officer Maria Cino. "Qwest's strong ties to the Minneapolis-Saint Paul community make for a natural partnership - and its services will be instrumental in helping us deliver our Republican nominee's message to the American people."
In anticipation of increased network demand in Minneapolis-Saint Paul, Qwest plans to significantly expand its fiber infrastructure in and around the Xcel Energy Center, site of the 2008 convention. The company already has surveyed and verified existing network facilities around the Xcel Energy Center, as well as those serving more than 100 major hotels in the metro area, so it can quickly assess build-out requirements as technology decisions are made.
"When the Republican National Convention kicks off in September, Qwest's team of experienced and service-oriented employees, together with our next-generation communications services, will completely change how convention organizers, delegates and the media communicate seamlessly and in real time from the convention," said John Stanoch, Qwest's Minnesota state president. "Qwest's network infrastructure and advanced technology investments for the 2008 Republican National Convention will continue to benefit Minneapolis-Saint Paul, our region, the state and the economy long after the delegates return home."
The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held at Saint Paul's Xcel Energy Center from Sept. 1-4, 2008. Approximately 45,000 delegates, alternate delegates, volunteers, members of the media and other guests are expected to attend the convention. Minneapolis-Saint Paul is expected to receive an estimated $150-$160 million positive economic boost from the convention. For more information about the 2008 Republican National Convention, please visit our website at www.GOPConvention2008.com.
