For Immediate Release

ALAMEDA POWER & TELECOM
CABLE SYSTEM INSTALLATION
CONTINUES ON SCHEDULE

ALAMEDA, Calif., Aug. 28, 2001 -- The creation of a new, city-owned cable television system is progressing on schedule, according to Alameda Power & Telecom General Manager Junona Jonas. "People are getting used to seeing the white trucks all over Alameda," she says. "Building the new fiber-optic system is a very large undertaking, but the project is moving along well. We've installed service to our first customers and we'll continue adding neighborhoods every week."

Building the fiber-optic system involves the installation of a backbone network that links neighborhoods to a "headend" at Alameda Point from which cable television programming is distributed. As customers sign up for the new service, connections are made to the user from the backbone cable on the street.

In addition to cable television service, Alameda Power & Telecom's new fiber-optic network will also be used to provide high speed Internet services. The expanded capabilities will available by this fall.

Alameda Power & Telecom Marketing Manager Bill Garvine said the complete build out of the fiber-optic network is scheduled to be completed within 18 months. "We're not happy that people in the last service areas have to wait," he acknowledged. "But we decided to make the service available to initially installed neighborhoods as soon as it was available, rather than have everyone wait for completion of the fiber-optic network."

Alamedans can learn when service will be available to a specific address by visiting the Alameda Power & Telecom website at www.alamedapt.com. "We encourage visitors to check back periodically, as the schedule does change," Garvine explained. "Also, we're asking residents in apartments or condominiums and those who receive their utility services in underground districts to call us at 748-3900 for the best information."

In the meantime, Alamedans are able to become Alameda Power & Telecom Charter Members at no cost. Garvine explains, "All they need to do is call 510-748-3900. Charter Members receive free priority installation when the service becomes available in their neighborhoods. Plus they get regular information and updates, and discounts at Alameda stores and restaurants."

The cost of the basic cable television service is $9.99 per month. Standard cable, which includes basic cable and expanded basic cable, is $31.98 per month. Digital service can be added for $10.99. Premium Value packages range from the Lieutenant package, which offers 178 channels for $43.99, to the Admiral package, which offers 204 channels for $73.99.