SBC to Improve Phone Network in California

SBC Communications Inc. said it will invest $2.19 billion this year to improve its local phone network in the state with an eye to meeting mushrooming demand for faster data and Internet services. The spending is 1.4% more than the $2.16 billion SBC’s Pacific Bell unit invested in the state last year. The company has spent more than $10 billion during the last five years. Pacific Bell is increasing its investment as demand for bigger, faster phone lines for Internet hookups and other data services booms. More than 20% of California’s phone customers have more than one phone line, and 40% of Internet traffic in the U.S. begins or ends in California. San Antonio-based SBC’s shares fell 19 cents to close at $39.94 on the NYSE.