Part of it might be how they're basically using the network upgrade as a chance to deploy new towers jam packed with surveillance equipment and other junk (e.g.

Part of it might be how they're basically using the network upgrade as a chance to deploy new towers jam packed with surveillance equipment and other junk (e.g. San Diego) that other firms / agencies might be interested in and willing to split costs on, and/or throwing subsidies at (costs of which can be conveniently ignored in many conversations).