Qwest, CenturyLink to spend $50M for state broadband

To win approval for Century-Link's $10.5 billion takeover of Qwest Communications International, the two companies have agreed with state regulators to spend $50 million over five years to expand broadband infrastructure in Minnesota.

The two phone companies also agreed in a filing to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission that for two years after the deal closes, they will make no changes to how Qwest handles lines leased to competing phone companies. Qwest spokeswoman Joanna Hjelmeland called the broadband commitment "significant," but some broadband advocates and competing telephone providers expressed disappointment with the agreement forged with the Minnesota Department of Commerce.