AT&T on Monday announced plans to invest in Ohio about $500 million in fiber network upgrades, expanded broadband and internet-based technologies, including video.

The investment over the next several years to provide these products to consumers is due to the passage and Monday' enactment of Ohio Senate Bill 117, which reformed the state's video franchising system and grants video competition here.

As part of this landmark investment, AT&T Ohio is equipping its remaining 23 wire centers, in mostly rural areas, with broadband technology.

Upon completion, all of AT&T Ohio's 252 wire centers will be DSL-ready and able to provide access to high speed internet service to under-served communities.

AT&T Ohio on Monday also submitted to the Ohio Department of Commerce its application for state certification to provide video services under the terms of the new video franchise law.

"We are anxious to bring advanced technology in video, voice and Internet services to Ohio consumers," said Connie Browning, president of AT&T Ohio.

"Governor Strickland, Senator Jacobson and the Ohio General Assembly should be applauded for providing the leadership that will place Ohio on the leading edge of telecom policy reform and result in investment, competition and deployment of new technologies," she said.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-9338 or kmcallister@DaytonDailyNews.com.