Philadelphia Puts Ink On Precedent Setting Deal With Comcast
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter made the city's deal with Comcast official today, signing it into law for the next 15 years.
The deal has set a precedent for franchises across the country.
The deal passed council unanimously, but only after some drama on the last day it could get out of committee and still be approved this year.
Committee Chairman Bobby Henon says he was holding out for something and he got it.
"We have the best franchise agreement in the nation."
That's not just his opinion. Comcast regional vice president Jim Samaha says the company thinks so too.
"This franchise agreement and other unique collaborations are indicative of our love for Philadelphia."
It's even inspired envy in other cities, according to the city's chief negotiator Adel Ebeid.
"The tagline across the country is we want what Philadelphia got."
The deal offers low-cost internet to more households, gives low-income seniors discounts on cable, and expands the city's wireless network and cable programming.