BANGOR – U.S. Cellular says it is expanding its presence in northern Maine by boosting its telecommunications network.

The company has new cell sites in Stacyville, Houlton and North Amity, and additional cell sites in Howland, Lee and Greenbush are to come on line by the end of the year. The new sites are funded by the federally mandated Universal Service Fund and complement the statewide network of about 245 U.S. Cellular towers.

The new sites will bring increased coverage and capacity in Stacyville along Routes 11, 158 and Interstate 95; in Houlton along I-95 and Routes 1, 2 and 2A; in North Amity along Routes 1 and 2A; in Howland along Routes 6, 16, 155 and I-95; in Lee along Routes 6 and 168; and in Greenbush along I-95 and Routes 2 and 116.

“This part of northern Maine lacked quality wireless service,” said Dana Dorcas, senior director of sales for U.S. Cellular. “As a result, we identified these communities as a priority for the funds the company receives through the Universal Service Fund.”

U.S. Cellular, which has operated in Maine since 1988, is the only wireless carrier providing service throughout the entire state on its own network. The company employs some 160 retail sales associates throughout Maine and operates 59 retail stores, kiosks, and authorized agent locations.