Officials say customers of telephone and broadband services provider FairPoint Communications won't initially notice much difference after it merges with an Illinois-based telecommunications provider.
Vermont utility regulators have given final approval that allows FairPoint to merge with Illinois-based Consolidated Communications. The Vermont action follows similar approvals from utility regulators in New Hampshire and Maine.
Consolidated officials say the deal is expected to be approved by Illinois regulators on Wednesday.
Consolidated Vice President Michael Shultz says that among other things, Consolidated will continue with a FairPoint promise to expand and improve high-speed internet service to tens of thousands of customers in the three states. They will also offer other new services.
After the merger with FairPoint, Consolidated will be operating in 24 states.
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