2009 was big investment year for Verizon, AT&T wireless

AT&T claims it has the nation's fastest 3G network.

Verizon claims its 3G network is the largest and most reliable.

Both of them invested millions locally in 2009 for more cell towers, widespread integration and better overall enhancements.

Verizon Wireless announced earlier this week it had spend nearly $240 million in 2009 to improve services and coverage across Florida - that included the installation of 65 new cell sites, installing new technologies at places such as Disney World and Raymond James Stadium, integrating 700 Alltell cell sites and laying down the groundwork for the upcoming 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) wireless network.

AT&T, for its part, said it had spent more than $85 million in the Tampa network alone since 2007.

"As 2009 comes to a close, AT&T has doubled 3G network capacity by beginning to broadcast 3G on a second frequency ... providing broader reach and better in-building coverage," said AT&T spokeswoman Kelly Starling.

The company's investment affects Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough and Polk counties, Starling said.

A total of 15 new cell sites were activated across the Tampa region in 2009, according to AT&T.

It expects to introduce its own LTE services to the public in 2011, but field tests will begin sometime in 2010, Starling said.