Voice, data and Internet communications provider Integra Telecom Inc. is taking Eschelon Telecom Inc. private for $710 million in cash and debt. Integra will purchase Eschelon Telecom for $30 per share and repay approximately $144 million in Eschelon debt. The combination will create one of the largest competitive local exchange carriers (CLEC) in the nation. Total company revenues are expected to be more than $700 million annually. Upon completion, Integra will serve an average of 20% of the businesses in the metropolitan areas in 11 Western and Midwestern states. Also, Richard Smith, president and CEO for Eschelon, will join Integra's board of directors. He added, "The market position and financial strength resulting from this combination well positions the customers and employees of both companies for the future."
In Aug., Integra completed a $243 million purchase of Citizens Communications Co.'s Electric Lightwave division.

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