Cingular Wireless customers will soon have an easier time making calls in southern Illinois.

Recently, Cingular Wireless, the nation's largest wireless carrier covering more than 270 million people nationwide, announced it was investing more than $1.4 million in cellular networks in southern Illinois this year.

According to a press release from Cingular Wireless, the investment in the southern Illinois network will bring several new cell sites, high-speed data services, additional portable and permanent generators, integration of the network assets from the formerly known AT&T Wireless, and other enhancements to Cingular's network.

In 2005, Cingular spent more than $2 million on upgrades to southern Illinois networks. Over the last two years, Cingular has spent over $13 billion to bring better service to its customers nationwide.

"Our ongoing focus is ensuring Cingular customers have the best wireless experience possible, which includes unmatched coverage and quality of service," Nancy Garvey, vice president and general manager of Cingular Wireless - Greater Midwest Region, said. "This network investment will enable us to continue to bring residents of Carbondale and the surrounding areas the highest quality service available."

Tara Traycoff, regional director of public relations for Cingular Wireless said the company would enhance coverage along Interstate 57 near Highway 13 near University Mall in Carbondale. Enhanced coverage will also be added across from Crab Orchard Lake, connecting Carbondale and Marion, she said, adding that Cingular will continue to improve coverage in Marion.

Other improvements in the networks include adding cell towers to the area.

Traycoff said one cell site has already been completed and another is in the works. She said Cingular has also integrated nine other cell sites in the Carbondale area.

With all of the new additions to southern Illinois wireless network, Traycoff said Cingular customers will benefit by being given more wireless services, enhanced call quality and coverage in homes, on the road, and at the office.

However, these updates will not be completed over night.

"It's an ongoing effort," she said. "We are always monitoring our network for ways to enhance coverage for our customers."

Several Cingular customers are pleased with the upgrades being made to the network.

Matt Ivetic, 19, a junior from Carol Stream studying aviation flight, said he was glad to hear about Cingular upgrading its network because his phone never worked when he needed it.

"I usually had to be in a field with nothing around me to get full reception," he said. "I mean I couldn't even talk inside my apartment because I only got one bar."

Ivetic said he believes the upgrade will benefit college students who are Cingular customers because it will make communication quicker and easier.