With near monopolies for broadband access in many Maine and northern New England markets, telecommunications analyst Barry Sine of Drexel Hamilton said he expects the pending merger of FairPoint Communications with Consolidated Communications of Illinois to bring the region more broadband and television options.
Sine said he expects the merged company to compete for cable TV customers in some markets in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, according to Maine Public.
Consolidated Communications offers video in other markets, and Sine said it can support similar service in northern New England.
Consolidated plans to buy FairPoint in a deal worth $1.5 billion. While both companies’ boards have approved the merger, it still must pass regulatory approval.