Verizon Wireless has poured nearly $75 million into Florida during the first half of 2008 on new cell sites, network facilities and other technologies to enhance services and coverage throughout the state.

Since 2000, the company has spent more than $1.8 billion on network enhancements in Florida, and more than $45 billion throughout the nation. Last year, Verizon Wireless invested more than $178 million in its Florida network.

Specifically, the enhancements include expansion of the operator’s EV-DO Rev. A network, which provides access to services such as V CAST and BroadbandAccess.

Verizon has added nearly 50 new cell sites and about 85% of them have their own on-site generators and new expanded fuel tanks to extend power-generating capacity.

Other network enhancements include a new high-tech $50 million switching facility in South Florida,  a $20 million enhancement to the company’s Tampa Bay switching facility, and deployment of two high-tech COWs (Cells On Wheels) outside of the Daytona International Speedway to boost wireless coverage.