Verizon Communications has completed the deal to buy fiber-optic network serving the Chicago market from WideOpenWest for $225 million.

Verizon aims to accelerate the deployment of next-generation broadband services by increasing its fiber presence. Investment in network densification with fiber and small cells enhances the strength of Verizon’s 4G LTE network, while laying the groundwork for 5G.

Verizon is planning its first commercial launch of 5G — delivered over fixed wireless technology — in the second half of 2018 targeting residential broadband customers.

The transaction enables Verizon to secure fiber to more than 500 macro-cell wireless sites and more than 500 small-cell wireless sites in Chicago.

The fiber network is designed to support multi-use services and already connects Verizon Wireless macro towers and small cells, reducing future leasing costs.

Verizon achievements in 2017

# Reached 953 Mbps in a real-world environment using LAA (Licensed Assisted Access)

# Launched FDD Massive MIMO

# Demoed 48 CBRS carrier aggregation

# Deployed on carrier aggregation across network 2,000 markets

# Deployed 4X4 MIMO and 256 QAM in over 560 markets

# Launched a national CATM1 network for IoT uses

Verizon said it’s the national leader in network densification – increasing network capacity through the deployment of additional fiber backhaul, small cells, distributed antenna systems (DAS) and numerous in-building solutions.

Verizon has substantial small cell deployments in each of the top 25 markets and in 90 percent of the top 100 markets.

“The addition of these fiber assets is an important part of our strategy to reinforce our current network capabilities and prepare for the future,” said Nicola Palmer, head of Wireless Networks, Verizon.