Crown Castle (CCI) 10-K 16 Feb 10 2009 FY Annual report Financial data

Consolidated Balance Sheet

Consolidated Balance Sheet (USD $)
In Thousands	Dec. 31, 2009	Dec. 31, 2008
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$766,146	$155,219
Restricted cash	213,514	147,852
Receivables net of allowance of $5,497 and $6,267, respectively	44,431	37,621
Deferred site rental receivables, net	13,347	29,650
Prepaid expenses	68,551	74,295
Deferred income tax assets	76,089	28,331
Other current assets	13,955	12,200
Total current assets	1,196,033	485,168
Restricted cash	5,000	5,000
Deferred site rental receivables, net of allowance of $3,600 and $-0-, respectively	261,566	144,474
Property and equipment, net	4,895,983	5,060,126
Goodwill	1,984,804	1,983,950
Site rental contracts and customer relationships, net	2,302,256	2,441,254
Other intangible assets, net	103,166	110,078
Deferred financing costs and other assets, net	207,798	131,672
Total assets	10,956,606	10,361,722
Liabilities and Equity
Accounts payable	33,053	33,808
Accrued interest	69,476	16,771
Deferred revenues	179,649	174,213
Interest rate swaps	160,121	52,539
Other accrued liabilities	94,610	90,810
Short-term debt, current maturities of debt and other obligations	217,196	466,217
Total current liabilities	754,105	834,358
Debt and other long-term obligations	6,361,954	5,635,972
Deferred ground lease payables	236,444	199,399
Deferred income tax liabilities	74,117	40,446
Interest rate swaps	140,481	488,632
Other liabilities	137,766	132,324
Total liabilities	7,704,867	7,331,131
Commitments and contingencies (note 17)
Redeemable preferred stock, $0.1 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized; shares issued and outstanding: December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008--6,361,000; stated net of unamortized issue costs; mandatory redemption and aggregate liquidation value of $318,050	315,654	314,726
CCIC stockholders' equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value; 600,000,000 shares authorized; shares issued and outstanding: December 31, 2009-292,729,684 and December 31, 2008-288,464,431	2,927	2,885
Additional paid-in capital	5,685,874	5,614,507
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(124,224)	(408,329)
Accumulated deficit	(2,628,336)	(2,493,198)
Total CCIC stockholders' equity	2,936,241	2,715,865
Noncontrolling interest	(156)	0
Total equity	2,936,085	2,715,865
Total liablities and equity	$10,956,606	$10,361,722

Consolidated Balance Sheet (Par

Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data	Dec. 31, 2009	Dec. 31, 2008
Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parenthetical)
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, current	$5,497	$6,267
Allowance for deferred rent receivables	3,600	0
Par value. redeemable preferred stock	0.1	0.1
Shares authorized, redeemable preferred stock	20,000,000	20,000,000
Shares issued, redeemable preferred stock	6,361,000	6,361,000
Shares outstanding, redeemable preferred stock	6,361,000	6,361,000
Mandatory redemption and aggregate liquidation value, redeemable preferred stock	$318,050	$318,050
Par value, common stock	0.01	0.01
Shares authorized, common stock	600,000,000	600,000,000
Shares issued, common stock	292,729,684	288,464,431
Shares outstanding, common stock	292,729,684	288,466,431

Consolidated Statement of Opera

Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Per Share data	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009		12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2008		12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2007
Net revenues:
Site rental	$1,543,192		$1,402,559		$1,286,468
Network services and other	142,215		123,945		99,018
Net revenues	1,685,407		1,526,504		1,385,486
Costs of operations:
Site rental (1)	456,560	[1]	456,123	[1]	443,342	[1]
Network services and other (1)	92,808	[1]	82,452	[1]	65,742	[1]
General and administrative	153,072		149,586		142,846
Restructuring charges (credits)	0		0		3,191
Asset write-down charges	19,237		16,888		65,515
Acquisition and integration costs	0		2,504		25,418
Depreciation, amortization and accretion	529,739		526,442		539,904
Total operating expenses	1,251,416		1,233,995		1,285,958
Operating income (loss)	433,991		292,509		99,528
Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs	(445,882)		(354,114)		(350,259)
Impairment of available-for-sale securities	0		(55,869)		(75,623)
Gains (losses) on purchases and redemptions of debt	(91,079)		42		0
Net gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	(92,966)		(37,888)		0
Interest and other income (expense)	5,413		2,101		9,351
Income (loss) before income taxes	(190,523)		(153,219)		(317,003)
Benefit (provision) for income taxes	76,400		104,361		94,039
Net income (loss)	(114,123)		(48,858)		(222,964)
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest	209		0		(151)
Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC stockholders	(114,332)		(48,858)		(222,813)
Dividends on preferred stock	(20,806)		(20,806)		(20,805)
Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC stockholders after deduction of dividends on preferred stock	(135,138)		(69,664)		(243,618)
Net income (loss)	(114,123)		(48,858)		(222,964)
Available-for-sale securities, net of taxes of $0, $0 and $0:
Unrealized gains (losses), net of taxes	6,799		(55,869)		(76,776)
Amounts reclassified into results of operations, net of taxes	0		55,869		57,529
Derivative instruments, net of taxes of $60,324, $48,879 and $26,442:
Net change in fair value of cash flow hedging instruments net of taxes	80,789		(392,993)		(40,042)
Amounts reclassified into results of operations, net of taxes	154,891		6,949		1,963
Foreign currency translation adjustments	41,399		(48,451)		19,916
Comprehensive income (loss)	169,755		(483,353)		(260,374)
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest	(18)		0		1,273
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to CCIC stockholders	$169,773		($483,353)		($261,647)
Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, after deduction of dividends on preferred stock, per common share - basic and diluted	-0.47		-0.25		-0.87
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic and diluted (in thousands)	286,622		282,007		279,937
[1]Exclusive of depreciation, amortization and accretion shown separately.

1_Consolidated Statement of Ope

Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2008	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2007
Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical)
Tax effect on available-for-sale securities	$0	$0	$0
Tax effect on derivative instruments	$60,324	$48,879	$26,442

Statement of Shareholders' Equi

Statement of Shareholders' Equity and Other Comprehensive Income (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data	Additional Paid-In Capital	Accumulated Deficit	Common Stock	Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available-for-sale Securities	Derivative Instruments	Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments	Noncontrolling Interest	Total
Balance - Value at Dec. 31, 2006	$2,873,858	($2,184,598)	$2,021	$19,247	($11,027)	$56,780	$29,052	$785,333
Balance - Shares at Dec. 31, 2006			202,080,546
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance of common stock and assumption of warrants in connection with the Global Signal Merger - Value	3,372,926		981					3,373,907
Issuance of common stock and assumption of warrants in connection with the Global Signal Merger - Shares			98,140,929
Purchases and retirement of capital stock - Value	(729,600)		(211)					(729,811)
Purchases and retirement of capital stock - Shares			(21,042,633)
Available-for-sale securities:
Unrealized gain (loss), net of tax				(76,776)				(76,776)
Amounts reclassified into results of operations, net of taxes				57,529				57,529
Derivative instruments:
Net change in fair value of cash flow hedging instruments, net of tax					(40,042)			(40,042)
Amounts reclassified into results of operations, net of tax					1,963			1,963
Other Comprehensive Income, Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustments						18,492	1,424	19,916
Cumulative Effect of Initial Adoption of New Accounting Principle [Abstract]
Cumulative effect to prior year accumulated deficit related to the adoption of FIN 48 (note 10)		4,682						4,682
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Net income (loss)		(222,813)					(151)	(222,964)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Acquisition of noncontrolling interest							(2,071)	(2,071)
Balance - Value at Dec. 31, 2007	5,561,454	(2,423,534)	2,825	0	(49,106)	75,272	0	3,166,911
Balance - Shares at Dec. 31, 2007			282,507,106
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Purchases and retirement of capital stock - Value	(44,673)		(12)					(44,685)
Purchases and retirement of capital stock - Shares			(1,210,919)
Available-for-sale securities:
Unrealized gain (loss), net of tax				(55,869)				(55,869)
Amounts reclassified into results of operations, net of taxes				55,869				55,869
Derivative instruments:
Net change in fair value of cash flow hedging instruments, net of tax					(392,993)			(392,993)
Amounts reclassified into results of operations, net of tax					6,949			6,949
Other Comprehensive Income, Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustments						(48,451)		(48,451)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Net income (loss)		(48,858)						(48,858)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Balance - Value at Dec. 31, 2008	5,614,507	(2,493,198)	2,885	0	(435,150)	26,821	0	2,715,865
Balance - Shares at Dec. 31, 2008			288,464,431					288,466,431
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Purchases and retirement of capital stock - Value	(2,864)		(1)				(138)	(3,003)
Purchases and retirement of capital stock - Shares			(115,875)
Available-for-sale securities:
Unrealized gain (loss), net of tax				6,799				6,799
Derivative instruments:
Net change in fair value of cash flow hedging instruments, net of tax					80,789			80,789
Amounts reclassified into results of operations, net of tax					154,891			154,891
Other Comprehensive Income, Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustments						41,626	(227)	41,399
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Net income (loss)		(114,332)					209	(114,123)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Balance - Value at Dec. 31, 2009	$5,685,874	($2,628,336)	$2,927	$6,799	($199,470)	$68,447	($156)	$2,936,085
Balance - Shares at Dec. 31, 2009			292,729,684					292,729,684

Consolidated Statement of Cash

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (USD $)
In Thousands	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2008	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2007
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	($114,123)	($48,858)	($222,964)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used for) operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization and accretion	529,739	526,442	539,904
(Gains) losses on purchases and redemptions of long-term debt	91,079	(42)	0
Amortization of deferred financing costs and other non-cash interest	61,357	24,830	23,913
Stock-based compensation expense	29,225	25,896	21,621
Asset write-down charges	19,237	16,888	65,515
Deferred income tax benefit (provision)	(74,410)	(113,557)	(98,914)
Income (expense) from forward-starting interest rate swaps	90,302	34,111	0
Impairment of available-for-sale securities	0	55,869	75,623
Other adjustments	821	(1,745)	(1,180)
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding the effects of acquistions:
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest	52,705	(1,031)	3,170
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable	(1,703)	(2,564)	7,592
Increase (decrease) in deferred revenues, deferred ground lease payables, other accrued liablilites and other liabilities	9,317	80,701	4,720
Decrease (increase) in receivables	(4,830)	(5,010)	3,966
Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses, deferred site rental receivables and other assets	(117,460)	(78,929)	(72,611)
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities	571,256	513,001	350,355
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from disposition of property and equipment	3,988	1,855	2,909
Payment for acquisitions (net of cash acquired) of businesses	(2,598)	(27,736)	(494,352)
Capital expenditures	(173,535)	(450,732)	(300,005)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities	(172,145)	(476,613)	(791,448)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	2,726,348	0	650,000
Proceeds from issuance of capital stock	45,049	8,444	31,176
Principal payments on debt and other long-term obligations	(6,500)	(6,500)	(4,875)
Purchases and redemptions of long-term debt	(2,191,719)	(282)	0
Purchases of capital stock ($-0-, $-0- and $600,450 from related parties)	(3,003)	(44,685)	(729,811)
Borrowings under revolving credit agreements	50,000	94,400	75,000
Payments under revolving credit agreements	(219,400)	0	0
Payments for financing costs	(67,760)	(1,527)	(9,108)
Payments for forward-starting interest rate swap settlements	(36,670)	0	0
Net (increase) decrease in restricted cash	(62,071)	17,745	(33,089)
Dividends on preferred stock	(19,878)	(19,878)	(19,879)
Capital distribution to noncontrolling interest holders of CCAL	0	0	(37,196)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities	214,396	47,717	(77,782)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	(2,580)	(4,131)	1,404
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	610,927	79,974	(517,471)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	155,219	75,245	592,716
Cash and cash equivalents at end year	$766,146	$155,219	$75,245

2_Consolidated Statement of Cas

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2008	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2007
Stock Transactions, Parenthetical Disclosures [Abstract]
Purchases of captial stock from related parties	$0	$0	$600,450

Consolidated Statement of Equit

Consolidated Statement of Equity (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2008	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2007
Balance - Value	$2,715,865	$3,166,911	$785,333
Balance - Shares	288,466,431
Cumulative effect to prior year accumulated deficit related to the adoption of FIN 48 (note 10)			4,682
Acquisition of noncontrolling interest			(2,071)
Issuance of common stock and assumption of warrants in connection with the Global Signal Merger - Value			3,373,907
Other issuances of capital stock, net of forfeitures - Value			31,625
Purchases and retirement of capital stock - Value	(3,003)	(44,685)	(729,811)
Stock-based compensation expense	29,225	25,896	21,621
Issuances of capital stock, net of forfeitures - Value	45,049	71,902
Capital distribution to noncontrolling interest holders of CCAL			(37,196)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	41,399	(48,451)	19,916
Available-for-sale securities:
Unrealized gain (loss), net of tax	6,799	(55,869)	(76,776)
Amounts reclassified into results of operations, net of tax	0	55,869	57,529
Derivative instruments:
Net change in fair value of cash flow hedging instruments, net of tax	80,789	(392,993)	(40,042)
Amounts reclassified into results of operations, net of tax	154,891	6,949	1,963
Dividends on preferred stock	(20,806)	(20,806)	(20,805)
Net income (loss)	(114,123)	(48,858)	(222,964)
Balance - Shares	292,729,684	288,466,431
Balance - Value	2,936,085	2,715,865	3,166,911
Additional Paid-In Capital
Balance - Value	5,614,507	5,561,454	2,873,858
Issuance of common stock and assumption of warrants in connection with the Global Signal Merger - Value			3,372,926
Other issuances of capital stock, net of forfeitures - Value			31,591
Purchases and retirement of capital stock - Value	(2,864)	(44,673)	(729,600)
Stock-based compensation expense	29,225	25,896	21,621
Issuances of capital stock, net of forfeitures - Value	45,006	71,830
Capital distribution to noncontrolling interest holders of CCAL			(8,942)
Derivative instruments:
Balance - Value	5,685,874	5,614,507	5,561,454
Accumulated Deficit
Balance - Value	(2,493,198)	(2,423,534)	(2,184,598)
Cumulative effect to prior year accumulated deficit related to the adoption of FIN 48 (note 10)			4,682
Derivative instruments:
Dividends on preferred stock	(20,806)	(20,806)	(20,805)
Net income (loss)	(114,332)	(48,858)	(222,813)
Balance - Value	(2,628,336)	(2,493,198)	(2,423,534)
Common Stock
Balance - Value	2,885	2,825	2,021
Balance - Shares	288,464,431	282,507,106	202,080,546
Issuance of common stock and assumption of warrants in connection with the Global Signal Merger - Value			981
Issuance of common stock and assumption of warrants in connection with the Global Signal Merger - Shares			98,140,929
Other issuances of capital stock, net of forfeitures - Value			34
Other issuances of capital stock, net of forfeitures - Shares			3,328,264
Purchases and retirement of capital stock - Value	(1)	(12)	(211)
Purchases and retirement of capital stock - Shares	(115,875)	(1,210,919)	(21,042,633)
Issuances of capital stock, net of forfeitures - Value	43	72
Issuances of capital stock, net of forfeitures - Shares	4,381,128	7,168,244
Derivative instruments:
Balance - Shares	292,729,684	288,464,431	282,507,106
Balance - Value	2,927	2,885	2,825
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available-for-sale Securities
Balance - Value	0	0	19,247
Available-for-sale securities:
Unrealized gain (loss), net of tax	6,799	(55,869)	(76,776)
Amounts reclassified into results of operations, net of tax		55,869	57,529
Derivative instruments:
Balance - Value	6,799	0	0
Derivative Instruments
Balance - Value	(435,150)	(49,106)	(11,027)
Derivative instruments:
Net change in fair value of cash flow hedging instruments, net of tax	80,789	(392,993)	(40,042)
Amounts reclassified into results of operations, net of tax	154,891	6,949	1,963
Balance - Value	(199,470)	(435,150)	(49,106)
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments
Balance - Value	26,821	75,272	56,780
Foreign currency translation adjustments	41,626	(48,451)	18,492
Derivative instruments:
Balance - Value	68,447	26,821	75,272
Noncontrolling Interest
Balance - Value	0	0	29,052
Acquisition of noncontrolling interest			(2,071)
Purchases and retirement of capital stock - Value	(138)
Capital distribution to noncontrolling interest holders of CCAL			(28,254)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(227)		1,424
Derivative instruments:
Net income (loss)	209		(151)
Balance - Value	($156)	$0	$0

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	1. Basis of Presentation Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Crown Castle International Corp. (CCIC) and its majority and wholly-owned subsidiaries, collectively referred to herein as the Company. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior years financial statements to be consistent with the presentation in the current year. In addition, on January1, 2009, the Company adopted certain presentation and disclosure requirements related to noncontrolling interests. See note 2. The Company owns, operates and leases towers and other communications structures (collectively, towers). The Companys primary business is the renting of antenna space to wireless communications companies under long-term contracts. To a lesser extent, the Company also provides certain network services to its customers, including initial antenna installation and subsequent augmentation, network design and site selection, site acquisition, site development, site management and other services. The Company conducts its operations through tower portfolios in the United States (including Puerto Rico) (U.S.) and Canada (collectively referred to as CCUSA) and Australia (referred to as CCAL). The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The Company has evaluated subsequent events through February15, 2010, which was the date the financial statements were issued.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Cash Equivalents Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. Restricted Cash Restricted cash represents the cash held in reserve by the indenture trustees pursuant to the indenture governing certain of the Companys debt instruments as well as any other cash whose use is limited by contractual provisions. The restriction of all rental cash receipts is a critical feature of these debt instruments, due to the applicable indenture trustees ability to utilize the restricted cash for the payment of (1)debt service costs, (2)ground rents, (3)real estate and personal property taxes, (4)insurance premiums related to towers, (5)other assessments by governmental authorities and potential environmental remediation costs, and (6)a portion of advance rents from customers. The restricted cash in excess of required reserve balances is subsequently released to the Company in accordance with the terms of the indentures. The increases and decreases in restricted cash have aspects of cash flows from financing as well as cash flows from operating activities and, as such, could be classified as either on the consolidated statement of cash flows. The Company has classified the increases and decreases in restricted cash as cash flows from financing activities based on consideration of the terms of the related indebtedness. The Company has classified the change in the other remaining restricted cash, which was an outflow of $3.6 million, $-0-, and $-0- for the years ending December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, as cash flows from operating activities on the consolidated statement of cash flows. Receivables Allowance An allowance for doubtful accounts is recorded as an offset to accounts receivable in order to present a net balance that the Company believes will be collected. An allowance for uncollectible amounts is recorded to offset the deferred site rental receivables that arise from site rental revenues recognized in excess of amounts currently due under the lease agreement. The Company uses judgment in estimating these allowances and considers historical collections, current credit status and contractual provisions. Additions to the allowance for doubtful accounts are charged either to site rental costs of operations or to network services and other costs of operations, as appropriate; and deductions from the allowance are recorded when specific accounts receivable are written off as uncollectible. Additions or reversals to the allowance for uncollectible deferred site rental receivables are charged to site rental revenues, and deductions from the allowance are recorded as contracts terminate. Investments in Equity Securities Investments in equity securities classified as available-for-sale are carried at fair value on the consolidated balance sheet. The net unrealized gains or losses on the available-for-sale securities, net of tax, are reported as accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) unless any losses are deemed other-than-temporary. The Company periodically reviews the value of available-for-sale securities and records

Acquisition

Acquisition
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Acquisition [Abstract]
Acquisition	3. Acquisition Global Signal Acquisition On January12, 2007, the merger of Global Signal Inc. ("Global Signal")with and into a subsidiary of the Company (Global Signal Merger) was completed for a purchase price of approximately $4.0 billion, exclusive of debt of approximately $1.8 billion that remained outstanding as obligations following the Global Signal Merger. The results of operations from Global Signal have been included in the consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) from January12, 2007. The Company entered into this acquisition and paid a purchase price that resulted in the recognition of goodwill primarily because of the anticipated growth opportunities in the tower portfolio. In connection with the Global Signal Merger, each outstanding share of common stock of Global Signal was converted into the right to receive, at the election of the holder thereof, either 1.61 shares of the Companys common stock or $55.95 in cash. In addition, in connection with the Global Signal Merger, the obligation pursuant to each warrant (GSI Warrants) entitling the holder thereof to purchase shares of Global Signal common stock was assumed by the Company with appropriate adjustments made to the number of shares and exercise price per share. Accordingly, each such warrant entitled the holder thereof to purchase 3.22 shares of the Companys common stock. As a result of the Global Signal Merger, the Company issued approximately 98.1million shares of common stock to the stockholders of Global Signal and paid the maximum $550.0 million in cash (GS $550M Consideration) and reserved for issuance approximately 0.6million shares of common stock issuable pursuant to warrants described above. The Company primarily financed the GS $550M Consideration with cash obtained from the issuance of the 2006 Tower Revenue Notes in November 2006. At the closing of the Global Signal Merger, Global Signals subsidiaries had debt outstanding of approximately $1.8 billion (see note 7). The purchase price of approximately $4.0 billion includes the fair value of common stock issued, the GS $550M Consideration, the fair value of the GSI Warrants and restricted stock awards assumed and estimated transaction costs. The components of the purchase price are as follows: Issuance of common stock to stockholders of Global Signal (98.1 million shares at $34.20) $ 3,353,275 GS $550M Consideration 550,013 Fair value of warrants assumed 18,392 Fair value of restricted stock awards assumed 2,240 Transaction costs 31,500 Total purchase price $ 3,955,420

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Property and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	4. Property and Equipment The major classes of property and equipment are as follows: Estimated December31, UsefulLives 2009 2008 Land $ 639,069 $ 596,100 Buildings 40years 36,157 35,040 Telecommunication towers 1-20years 7,031,735 6,802,316 Transportation and other equipment 3-5 years 25,006 26,505 Office furniture and equipment 2-10 years 118,110 110,997 Construction in process 86,478 103,623 Total gross property and equipment 7,936,555 7,674,581 Less: accumulated depreciation (3,040,572 ) (2,614,455 ) Total property and equipment, net $ 4,895,983 $ 5,060,126 Depreciation expense for the years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 was $379.6 million, $380.5 million and $400.3 million, respectively. See note 2.

Intangible Assets and Deferred

Intangible Assets and Deferred Credits
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Intangible Assets and Deferred Credits [Abstract]
Intangible Assets and Deferred Credits	5. Intangible Assets and Deferred Credits Virtually all of the intangible assets are recorded at CCUSA. The accumulated amortization on these intangible assets as of December31, 2009 and 2008 is $476.9 million and $327.5 million, respectively, of which $456.7 million and $314.0 million, respectively, relate to site rental contracts and customer relationships. Intangible assets not subject to amortization relate to the U.S. nationwide 1650-1675 spectrum license (Spectrum) and have a carrying value of $15.1 million, as of December31, 2009 and 2008. For the years ended December31, 2009 and 2008, the Company recorded $0.6 million and $30.4 million, respectively, of site rental contracts and customer relationships. Amortization expense related to intangible assets is classified as follows on the Companys consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss): For Years Ended December31, Classification 2009 2008 2007 Depreciation, amortization and accretion $ 145,192 $ 143,409 $ 137,160 Site rental costs of operations 4,051 4,452 4,394 Total amortization expense $ 149,243 $ 147,861 $ 141,554 The estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets (inclusive of those recorded to site rental costs of operations) for the years ended December31, 2010 to 2014 is as follows: Years Ending December31, 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Estimated annual amortization $ 151,709 $ 151,676 $ 148,256 $ 147,858 $ 141,983 See note 2 for a further discussion of deferred credits related to above-market leases for land under the Companys towers recorded in connection with acquisitions. For each of the years ended December31, 2009 and 2008, the Company recorded $4.5 million and $5.0 million as a decrease to site rental costs of operations. As of December31, 2009 and 2008, the net book value of the above-market leases was $58.9 million and $63.9 million, respectively, and the accumulated amortization was $13.9 million and $9.6 million, respectively.

Available-for-Sale Securities

Available-for-Sale Securities
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities [Text Block]	6. Available-for-Sale Securities For the years ended December31, 2009 and 2008, the Company recorded impairment charges included in impairment of available-for-sale securities of $-0- and $55.9 million (net of tax), respectively, related to the Companys investment in FiberTower Corporation (FiberTower) as a result of an other-than-temporary decline in the value of FiberTower (NASDAQ: FTWR). The other-than-temporary decline determination was based primarily on the length of time and extent to which the market value has been less than the adjusted cost basis, and the impact of the current broad-based economic and market conditions on the Companys views about the short-term prospects for recovery of the FiberTower stock price. As of December31, 2009, the fair value of the Companys investment in FiberTower was $11.0 million inclusive of an unrealized gain of $6.8 million.

Debt and Other Obligations

Debt and Other Obligations
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Debt and Other Obligations [Abstract]
Debt and Other Obligations	7. Debt and Other Obligations Following is a summary of the Companys indebtedness. See also note 23 for a discussion of refinancing of the 2005 Tower Revenue Notes in January 2010. Original IssueDate Contractual Maturity Date Outstanding Balance as of December31, 2009 Outstanding Balance as of December31, 2008 Stated Interest Rate as of December31, 2009(a) Bank debt variable rate: Revolver Jan. 2007 Sept. 2013 $ $ 169,400 N/A(b) 2007 Term Loans Jan./March2007 March 2014 632,125 638,625 1.7%(b) Total bank debt 632,125 808,025 Securitized debt fixed rate: 2006 Mortgage Loan Feb. 2006 Feb. 2011 1,548,351 2004 Mortgage Loan Dec. 2004 Dec. 2009 290,317 2006 Tower Revenue Notes Nov. 2006 Nov.2036 (c) 1,550,000 1,550,000 5.7%(c) 2005 Tower Revenue Notes June 2005 June2035 (c) 1,638,616 1,900,000 4.8%(c) 2009 Securitized Notes July 2009 2019/2029 (d) 250,000 7.1% Total securitized debt 3,438,616 5,288,668 High yield bonds fixed rate: 9% Senior Notes (e) Jan. 2009 Jan. 2015 823,809 9.0%(f) 7.75% Secured Notes (e) April 2009 May 2017 1,167,225 7.8%(g) 7.125% Senior Notes Oct. 2009 Oct. 2019 497,533 7.1%(h) 7.5% Senior Notes Dec. 2003 Dec. 2013 51 51 7.5% Total high yield bonds 2,488,618 51 Other: Capital leases and other obligations Various Various (i) 19,791 5,445 Various (i) Total debt and other obligations 6,579,150 6,102,189 Less: current maturities and short-term debt and other current obligations 217,196 (j) 466,217 Non-current portion of long-term debt and other long-term obligations $ 6,361,954 $ 5,635,972 (a) Represents the weighted-average stated interest rate. (b) Following the amendment signed in December 2009 and effective January 2010, the Revolver bears interest at a rate per annum, at the election of Crown Castle Operating Company (CCOC), equal to the prime rate of The Royal Bank of Scotland plc plus a credit spread ranging from 1.0% to 1.4% or LIBOR plus a credit spread ranging from 2.0% to 2.4%, in each case based on the Companys consolidated leverage ratio. The 2007 term loans (2007 Term Loans) bear interest at a rate per annum, at CCOCs election, equal to the prime rate of The Royal Bank of Scotland plc plus 0.5% or LIBOR plus 1.5%. (c) If the 2005 Tower Revenue Notes and the 2006 Tower Revenue Notes (collectively, Tower Revenue Notes) are not paid in full on or prior to June 2010 or November 2011, respectively, then Excess Cash

Interest Rate Swaps

Interest Rate Swaps
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Interest Rate Swaps [Abstract]
Interest Rate Swaps	8. Interest Rate Swaps The Company enters into interest rate swaps to manage and reduce its interest rate risk, including the use of (1)forward-starting interest rate swaps to hedge its exposure to variability in future cash flows attributable to changes in LIBOR on anticipated financing, including refinancings and potential future borrowings and (2)interest rate swaps to hedge the interest rate variability on a portion of the Companys floating rate debt. The Company does not enter into interest rate swaps for speculative or trading purposes. The forward-starting interest rate swaps call for the Company to pay interest at a fixed rate in exchange for receiving interest at a variable rate equal to LIBOR. The forward-starting interest rate swaps are exclusive of any credit spread that would be incremental to the fixed rate in determining the all-in interest rate of the anticipated financing. The Company is exposed to non-performance risk from the counterparties to its interest rate swaps; however, the Company generally uses master netting arrangements to mitigate such non-performance risk. The Company does not require collateral as security for its interest rate swaps. In September 2008, the Company de-designated as hedging instruments two interest rate swaps with a combined notional value of $475.0 million that are held by a subsidiary of Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. (Lehman Brothers) because of the probability the counterparty would default. The settlement value of the interest rate swaps with Lehman Brothers was a liability of $30.7 million as of December31, 2009. The Companys other interest rate swaps are with Morgan Stanley, the Royal Bank of Scotland plc and Calyon who have credit ratings of A2 or better from Moodys. The following is a summary of the outstanding interest rate swaps as of December31, 2009. Hedged Item(a) Combined Notional StartDate(b) EndDate PayFixed Rate(c) Receive Variable Rate Variable to fixed forward-starting: 2005 Tower Revenue Notes anticipated refinancing(d) $ 1,900,000 June2010 June2015 5.2 % LIBOR Non-economic hedge(e) 1,550,000 Feb. 2011 Feb. 2016 5.3 % LIBOR 2006 Tower Revenue Notes anticipated refinancing(d) 1,550,000 Nov.2011 Nov.2016 5.1 % LIBOR Variable to fixed: Term loan swaps(f) 600,000 Jan. 2010 Dec. 2011 1.3 % LIBOR Total $ 5,600,000 (a) Inclusive of interest rate swaps no longer designated as hedging instruments. (b) On the respective effective dates (start dates), the Company is contractually obligated to terminate and settle in cash the forward-starting interest rate swaps. (c) Exclusive of any applicable credit spreads. (d) The hedges of the anticipated refinancing of the 2005 Tower Revenue Notes and 2006 Tower Revenue Notes are inclusive of notional values of $275.0 million and $200.0 million, respectively, held by a subsidiary of Lehman Brothers. See note 23 for a discussion of the refinancing of the 2005 Tower Revenue Notes. (e) This interest

Fair Value Disclosures

Fair Value Disclosures
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Disclosures	9. Fair Value Disclosures The following is the estimated fair values of the Companys financial instruments, along with the carrying amounts of the related assets (liabilities). See also note 23. December31, 2009 December31, 2008 Carrying Amount Fair Value Carrying Amount Fair Value Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 766,146 $ 766,146 $ 155,219 $ 155,219 Restricted cash 218,514 218,514 152,852 152,852 Interest rate swaps (b) 562 562 Available-for-sale securities 11,016 11,016 4,216 4,216 Liabilities: Short-term and long-term debt and other obligations (a) $ 6,579,150 $ 6,870,979 $ 6,102,189 $ 4,808,985 Interest rate swaps (b) 300,602 300,602 541,171 541,171 (a) Fair value increased as a result of an improvement in the conditions in the credit markets and in particular the Companys debt issued during 2009 traded well in the marketplace. See note 7. (b) See note 8. The following table presents information about the Companys assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December31, 2009 and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized by the Company to determine such fair value. Assets at Fair Value as of December31, 2009 Level1 Level2 Level3 Total Cash and cash equivalents $ 766,146 $ $ $ 766,146 Restricted cash 218,514 218,514 Interest rate swaps 562 562 Available-for-sale securities 11,016 11,016 $ 995,676 $ $ 562 $ 996,238 Liabilities at Fair Value as of December31, 2009 Level1 Level2 Level3 Total Interest rate swaps $ $ $ 300,602 $ 300,602 As of December31, 2009, the net liability for interest rate swaps was $300 million on a fair value basis, consisting of the cash settlement value of $313.9 million and a reduction for a credit valuation allowance of $13.8 million related to credit risk (primarily the Companys credit risk) to reflect the interest rate swaps at fair value. The credit valuation allowance as of December31, 2009 decreased by $61.2 million from December31, 2008. $27.2 million of the change in the credit valuation allowance was recorded to net gain (loss) on interest rate swaps, and the remainder was recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income. The following is a summary of the activity for fair value classified as level 3 during the year ended December31, 2009: FairValueMeasurementsUsing SignificantUnobservableInputs(Level3) Interest Rate Swap, Net Beginning balance $ 541,171 Settlements (57,251 ) Less: total (gains) loss: Included in earnings (a) (43,824 ) Included in other comprehensive income (loss) (140,056 ) Ending balance $ 300,040 (a) Includes $57.3 million of gains that are attributable to the change in unrea

Income Taxes

Income Taxes
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	10. Income Taxes Income (loss) before income taxes by geographic area is as follows: Years Ended December31, 2009 2008 2007 Domestic $ (193,055 ) $ (145,086 ) $ (307,953 ) Foreign (a) 2,532 (8,133 ) (9,050 ) $ (190,523 ) $ (153,219 ) $ (317,003 ) (a) Inclusive of income (loss) before income taxes from Australia, Puerto Rico and Canada. The benefit (provision) for income taxes consists of the following: Years Ended December31, 2009 2008 2007 Current: Federal $ 5,803 $ (1,958 ) $ (1,535 ) Foreign (1,904 ) (2,496 ) (1,583 ) State (1,909 ) (4,742 ) (1,757 ) Total current $ 1,990 $ (9,196 ) $ (4,875 ) Deferred: Federal $ 56,152 $ 111,728 $ 97,763 State 18,258 1,829 1,151 Total deferred $ 74,410 $ 113,557 $ 98,914 Total tax benefit (provision) $ 76,400 $ 104,361 $ 94,039 For the year ended December31 2009, the Company recorded a $5.6 million alternative minimum tax carryback receivable and reduced its alternative minimum tax credit carryforward by the amount of the anticipated refund. The alternative minimum tax credit has an indefinite carryforward period. A reconciliation between the benefit (provision) for income taxes and the amount computed by applying the federal statutory income tax rate to the loss before income taxes is as follows: Years Ended December31, 2009 2008 2007 Benefit for income taxes at statutory rate $ 66,683 $ 53,626 $ 110,951 Tax effect of foreign income (losses) 886 (2,846 ) (3,168 ) Expenses for which no federal tax benefit was recognized (803 ) (675 ) (742 ) Losses for which no tax benefit was recognized (19,554 ) (8,373 ) State tax (provision) benefit, net of federal 10,627 (1,893 ) (394 ) Foreign tax (1,904 ) (2,496 ) (1,583 ) Change in unrecognized tax benefits 71,687 Other 911 6,512 (2,652 ) $ 76,400 $ 104,361 $ 94,039 The components of the net deferred income tax assets and liabilities are as follows: December31, 2009 2008 Deferred income tax liabilities: Property and equipment $ 479,395 $ 464,335 Deferred site rental receivable 103,937 66,757 Intangible assets 704,109 736,933 Total deferred income tax liabilities 1,287,441 1,268,025 Deferred income tax assets: Net operating loss carryforwards 729,120 681,827 Deferred ground lease payable 92,216 82,874 Alternate minimum tax credit carryforward 7,826 13,629 A

Noncontrolling Interests

Noncontrolling Interests
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]
Noncontrolling Interests	11. Noncontrolling Interests As discussed in note 2, on January1, 2009, the Company adopted certain amendments to accounting guidance relating to noncontrolling interests. Noncontrolling interests primarily represent the noncontrolling shareholders 22.4% interests in CCAL, the Companys 77.6% majority-owned subsidiary, and the noncontrolling shareholders approximately 2% interests in Mountain Union Telecom, LLC (from July1, 2006 to January2, 2007). In May 2007, CCAL issued a capital return of approximately $166.0 million, including $37.2 million to its noncontrolling shareholders. Upon issuance of the capital return, the Company recorded a reduction in additional paid-in capital of $8.9 million as a result of the capital return to the CCAL noncontrolling shareholders exceeding the carrying value of the noncontrolling interests in CCAL.

Redeemable Preferred Stock

Redeemable Preferred Stock
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Redeemable Preferred Stock [Abstract]
Redeemable Preferred Stock	12. Redeemable Preferred Stock Redeemable preferred stock consists of the following: December31, 2009 2008 6.25% Convertible Preferred Stock $ 315,654 $ 314,726 6.25% Convertible Preferred Stock The Company originally issued 8.1million shares of its 6.25% Convertible Preferred Stock at a price of $50.00 per share (the liquidation preference per share). The holders of the 6.25% Convertible Preferred Stock are entitled to receive cumulative dividends at the rate of 6.25%per annum payable on February15,May15,August15 and November15 of each year. The Company has the option to pay dividends in cash or in shares of its common stock. The dividends were paid with approximately $19.9 million of cash for each of the years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. The amortization of the issue costs on the 6.25% Convertible Preferred Stock to dividends on preferred stock was $0.9 million for each of years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. The Company is required to redeem all outstanding shares of the 6.25% Convertible Preferred Stock on August15, 2012 at a price equal to the liquidation preference plus accumulated and unpaid dividends. The shares of 6.25% Convertible Preferred Stock are convertible, at the option of the holder, in whole or in part at any time, into shares of the Companys common stock at a conversion price of $36.875 per share of common stock. Under certain circumstances, the Company generally has the right to convert the 6.25% Convertible Preferred Stock, in whole or in part, into 8.6million shares of common stock, if the price per share of the Companys common stock equals or exceeds 120% of the conversion price, or $44.25, for at least 20 trading days in any consecutive 30-day trading period. The Companys obligations with respect to the 6.25% Convertible Preferred Stock are subordinate to all indebtedness of the Company and are effectively subordinate to all debt and liabilities of the Companys subsidiaries.

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity
	1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD / shares
Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	13. Stockholders Equity Purchases of the Companys Common Stock In January 2008, the Company purchased 1.1million shares of common stock in public market transactions utilizing $42.0 million in cash. In January 2007, the Company purchased an aggregate of 17.7million shares of its common stock from (1)certain investment funds affiliated with Fortress Investment Group, (2)Greenhill Capital Partners L.P. and certain of its related partnerships, and (3)Abrams Capital Partners L.P. (collectively Global Signal Significant Stockholders). The Company paid total consideration of $600.5 million in cash to effect these purchases. These purchases of common stock were primarily funded through borrowings under the 2007 Term Loans. In addition, during 2007, the Company purchased 3.2million shares of common stock in public market transactions, utilizing $126.0 million in cash to effect these purchases. Issuances of Common Stock For the years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the Company issued 59,500, 32,977 and 30,752 shares, respectively, of common stock to the non-employee members of its board of directors. In connection with these shares, the Company recognized stock-based compensation expense for the years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 of $1.0 million, $1.2 million and $1.1 million, respectively. In connection with the Global Signal Merger, the Company issued 98.1million shares of common stock to the stockholders of Global Signal which were recorded at a value of $34.20 per share. See note 3. 4% Convertible Senior Notes During the year ended December31, 2008 holders converted $63.8 million of the 4% Convertible Senior Notes into 5.9million shares of common stock. As of December31, 2009, there were no 4% Convertible Senior Notes outstanding. Stock Options and Restricted Stock Awards See note 14 for a discussion of the stock option and restricted stock awards activity.

Stock-based Compensation

Stock-based Compensation
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Stock-based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock-based Compensation	14. Stock-based Compensation Stock Compensation Plans The Crown Castle International Corp. 2001 Stock Incentive Plan (2001 Stock Incentive Plan) and the Crown Castle International Corp. 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (2004 Stock Incentive Plan), which are both stockholder-approved, permit the grant of stock-based awards to certain employees, consultants and non-employee directors of the Company and its subsidiaries or affiliates. As of December31, 2009, the Company has 10.0million shares available for future issuance pursuant to its stock compensation plans. Since 2003, the Company has used CCIC restricted stock awards as a long-term incentive to its employees. The Company has not granted CCIC stock options since 2003 and has not granted options to executive management since October 2001. In addition, CCAL may award options to its employees and directors for the purchase of CCAL shares. The CCAL vested options and shares may be periodically settled in cash. The liability for the CCAL options was $2.7 million and $6.2 million, respectively, as of December31, 2009 and 2008. Restricted Stock Awards The Companys restricted stock awards to certain executives and employees include (1)annual performance awards that often include provisions for forfeiture by the employee if certain market performance of the Companys common stock is not achieved, (2)new hire or promotional awards that generally contain only service conditions, and (3)other awards related to specific business initiatives or compensation objectives including retention and merger integration. Such restricted stock awards vest over periods up to five years. The following is a summary of the restricted stock award activity during the year ended December31, 2009. NumberofShares Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value (Inthousandsofshares) (Indollarspershare) Shares outstanding at the beginning of year 2,749 $ 26.2 Shares granted 2,237 10.1 Shares vested (366 ) 26.5 Shares forfeited (466 ) 17.7 Shares outstanding at end of year 4,154 $ 18.4 For the years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the Company granted 2.2million shares, 1.4million shares and 1.4million shares, respectively, of restricted stock awards to the Companys executives and certain other employees. The weighted-average grant-date fair value per share of the grants for the years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 was $10.08, $26.38 and $23.76 per share, respectively. The weighted-average requisite service period for the restricted stock awards granted during 2009 was 2.6 years. During the year ended December31, 2009, the Company granted 0.8million shares of restricted stock awards that time vest over a three-year period. During the year ended December31, 2009, the Company granted 1.4million shares of restricted stock awards (2009 performance awards) to the Companys executives and certain other employees which may vest on the third anniversary of the grant date based upon achieving a price appreciation hurdle along a price range continuum using the highest average closing price per share of common

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	15. Employee Benefit Plans The Company and its subsidiaries have various defined contribution savings plans covering substantially all employees. Employees may elect to contribute a portion of their eligible compensation, subject to limits imposed by the various plans. Certain of the plans provide for partial matching of such contributions. The cost to the Company for these plans amounted to $5.2 million, $4.4 million and $4.3 million for the years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Related Party Transactions
Related Party Transactions	16. Related Party Transactions On January19, 2007, the Company purchased 17.7million shares from the Global Signal Significant Stockholders in a private transaction. See note 13

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	17. Commitments and Contingencies The Company is involved in various claims, lawsuits and proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business along with a derivative lawsuit as described below. While there are uncertainties inherent in the ultimate outcome of such matters, and it is impossible to presently determine the ultimate costs or losses that may be incurred, if any, management believes the resolution of such uncertainties and the incurrence of such costs should not have a material adverse effect on the Companys consolidated financial position or results of operations. In February 2007, plaintiffs filed a consolidated petition styled In Re Crown Castle International Corp. Derivative Litigation, Cause No.2006-49592; in the 234th Judicial District Court, Harris County, Texas which consolidated five stockholder derivative lawsuits filed in 2006. The lawsuit names various of the Company's current and former directors and officers. The lawsuit makes allegations relating to the Company's historic stock option practices and alleges claims for breach of fiduciary duty and other similar matters. Among the forms of relief, the lawsuit seeks alleged monetary damages sustained by CCIC. In October 2009, the plaintiffs claims with respect to the consolidated petition styled Re Crown Castle International Corp. Derivative Litigation Cause No.2006-49592, in the 234th Judicial District Court, Harris County, Texas were dismissed with prejudice. This order to dismiss is appealable by the plaintiff. Asset Retirement Obligations Pursuant to its ground lease agreements, the Company has the obligation to perform certain asset retirement activities, including requirements upon lease termination to remove towers or remediate the land upon which its towers reside. Accretion expense related to liabilities for contingent retirement obligations amounted to $4.9 million, $2.5 million and $2.5 million for the years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. At December31, 2009 and 2008, liabilities for contingent retirement obligations amounted to $58.8 million and $53.8 million, respectively, representing the net present value of the estimated expected future cash outlay. As of December31, 2009, the estimated undiscounted future cash outlay for asset retirement obligations was approximately $1.8 billion. See note 2. Property Tax Commitments The Company is obligated to pay, or reimburse others for, property taxes related to the Companys towers pursuant to operating leases with landlords and other contractual agreements. For the year ended December31, 2009, the Company paid, or reimbursed others for, property taxes of approximately $47 million, inclusive of the payment to Sprint Nextel discussed below. For the year ended December31, 2010, the Company estimates that it will pay, or reimburse others for, property taxes of approximately $48 million, inclusive of the payment to Sprint Nextel discussed below. The property taxes for the year ended December31, 2010 and future periods are contingent upon new assessments of the towers and the Companys appeals of assessments. As a result of a commitment that remained effective at the closing of t

Leases

Leases
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	18. Leases Tenant Leases The following table is a summary of the rental cash payments to the Company, as a lessor, by tenants pursuant to lease agreements in effect as of December31, 2009. Generally, the Companys leases with its tenants provide for (1)annual escalations and multiple renewal periods at the tenants option and (2)only limited termination rights at the tenants option through the current term. The tenant rental payments included in the table below are through the current term and do not assume exercise of tenant renewal options. Years Ending December31, 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Thereafter Tenant leases $ 1,505,094 $ 1,477,587 $ 1,390,984 $ 1,311,641 $ 1,208,972 $ 6,023,110 Operating Leases The following table is a summary of rental cash payments owed by the Company, as lessee, to landlords pursuant to lease agreements in effect as of December31, 2009. The Company is obligated under non-cancelable operating leases for land under 73% of its towers, office space and equipment. In addition, the Company has operating leases under which it manages space on towers owned by third parties under 3% of its towers. The majority of these operating lease agreements have certain termination rights that provide for cancellation after a notice period. The majority of the land and managed tower leases have multiple renewal options at the Companys option and annual escalations. Lease agreements may also contain provisions for a contingent payment based on revenues or the gross margin derived from the tower located on the leased land. Approximately 44% of the Companys site rental gross margins for the year ended December31, 2009 are derived from towers where the leases for land under such towers that have final expiration dates of greater than 15 years, inclusive of renewals at the Companys option. The operating lease payments included in the table below include payments for certain renewal periods at the Companys option up to the estimated tower useful life of 20 years and an estimate of contingent payments based on revenues and gross margins derived from existing tenant leases. Years Ending December31, 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Thereafter Operating leases $ 289,335 $ 296,193 $ 300,613 $ 303,625 $ 304,503 $ 3,714,613 Rental expense from operating leases was $316.2 million, $313.1 million and $309.2 million, respectively, for the years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. The rental expense was inclusive of contingent payments based on revenues or gross margin derived from the tower located on the leased land of $53.1 million, $49.5 million and $49.3 million, respectively, for the years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007.

Operating Segments and Concentr

Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk [Abstract]
Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk	19. Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk Operating Segments The Companys reportable operating segments are (1)CCUSA, primarily consisting of the Companys U.S. tower operations, and (2)CCAL, the Companys Australian tower operations. Financial results for the Company are reported to management and the board of directors in this manner. The measurement of profit or loss currently used by management to evaluate the results of operations for the Company and its operating segments is earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and accretion, as adjusted (Adjusted EBITDA). The Company defines Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) plus restructuring charges (credits), asset write-down charges, acquisition and integration costs, depreciation, amortization and accretion, interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs, gains (losses) on purchases and redemptions of debt, net gain (loss) on interest rate swaps, impairment of available-for-sale securities, interest and other income (expense), benefit (provision) for income taxes, cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, income (loss) from discontinued operations and stock-based compensation expense. Adjusted EBITDA is not intended as an alternative measure of operating results or cash flows from operations (as determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles), and the Companys measure of Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies (including as may be used in the historical financial statements of Global Signal). There are no significant revenues resulting from transactions between the Companys operating segments. Inter-company borrowings and related interest between segments are eliminated to reconcile segment results and assets to the consolidated basis. The financial results for the Companys operating segments are as follows: Year Ended December31, 2009 Year Ended December31, 2008 Year Ended December31, 2007 CCUSA CCAL Elim(b) Consolidated Total CCUSA CCAL Elim(b) Consolidated Total CCUSA CCAL Elim(b) Consolidated Total Net revenues: Site rental $ 1,466,552 $ 76,640 $ $ 1,543,192 $ 1,324,677 $ 77,882 $ $ 1,402,559 $ 1,214,965 $ 71,503 $ $ 1,286,468 Network services and other 134,545 7,670 142,215 113,392 10,553 123,945 89,706 9,312 99,018 1,601,097 84,310 1,685,407 1,438,069 88,435 1,526,504 1,304,671 80,815 1,385,486 Costs of operations(a): Site rental 433,481 23,079 456,560 432,896 23,227 456,123

Restructuring Charges, Acquisit

Restructuring Charges, Acquisition and Integration Costs, Asset Write-Down Charges and Exit Costs
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Restructuring Charges, Acquisition and Integration Costs, Asset Write-Down Charges and Exit Costs [Abstract]
Restructuring Charges, Acquisition and Integration Costs, Asset Write-Down Charges and Exit Costs	20. Restructuring Charges, Acquisition and Integration Costs, Asset Write-Down Charges and Exit Costs Overview The following is a summary of the components of the restructuring charges and asset write-down charges for the years ended December31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. The acquisition and integration costs for the years ended December31, 2008 and 2007 related to the Global Signal Merger. Years Ended December31, 2009 2008 2007 Restructuring Charges Asset Write- Down Charge Restructuring Charges Asset Write- Down Charge Restructuring Charges Asset Write- Down Charge Modeo $ $ $ $ $ 3,080 $ 57,599 Tower write-down charges 18,968 14,403 7,916 Below-market leases 269 2,415 Other 70 111 Total $ $ 19,237 $ $ 16,888 $ 3,191 $ 65,515 Modeo As part of the lease of the Spectrum in 2007, the Company also transferred for nominal consideration the subsidiary holding the assets related to its former trial network in New York City. For the year ended December31, 2007, the Company recorded asset write-down charges at CCUSA of $57.6 million related to the write-off of substantially all of the Companys Modeo assets other than the Spectrum. The assets written off were comprised primarily of construction in process related to (1)the mobile television network in New York City and (2)the planned expansion of the network for broadcasting live television to mobile devices beyond New York City. For the year ended December31, 2007, the Company recorded restructuring charges at CCUSA of $3.1 million related to the termination of the Modeo employees, including $2.4 million of stock-based compensation related to the accelerated vesting and the change in fair value of the Modeo options that were accounted for as liability awards. During the year ended December31, 2007, 42,450 Modeo options were settled in cash for an aggregate intrinsic value of $3.0 million. The remaining Modeo options were forfeited. The Company does not expect to incur additional restructuring charges in the future related to Modeo. A summary of the Modeo restructuring charges within the CCUSA segment are as follows: YearsEnded December31, 2008 2007 Amounts accrued at beginning of period $ 272 $ Amounts charged to expense 3,080 (a) Amounts paid (272 ) (2,808 ) Amounts accrued at end of period $ $ 272 (a) Inclusive of stock-based compensation charges of $2.4 million. Global Signal Merger Subsequent to the closing of the Global Signal Merger, the Company finalized plans for the integration of Global Signals operations and wireless communications tower portfolio into the Companys policies, procedures, operations and systems. As a result of the Global Signal integration plans, for the year ended December31, 2007, the Company recorded $8.3 million of acquisition and integration costs related to severance and retention b

Supplemental Cash Flow Informat

Supplemental Cash Flow Information
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	21. Supplemental Cash Flow Information Years Ended December31, 2009 2008 2007 Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: Interest paid $ 331,681 $ 330,491 $ 324,605 Income taxes paid 5,597 6,582 4,218 Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities: Increase (decrease) in the fair value of available-for-sale securities (note 6) 6,799 (55,869 ) (94,870 ) Common stock issued in connection with the conversion of debt (note 13) 63,340 37 Common stock issued and assumption of warrants and restricted stock awards in connection with the Global Signal Merger (note 3) 3,373,907 Increase (decrease) in the fair value of interest rate swaps (note 8) (140,397 ) (394,163 ) (63,555 ) Assets acquired through capital leases and installment sales 17,351 2,537 503

Quarterly Financial Information

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Information	22. Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) Summary quarterly financial information for the years ended December31, 2009 and 2008 is as follows: Three Months Ended March31 June30 September30 December31 2009: Net revenues $ 402,910 $ 409,874 $ 429,079 $ 443,544 Operating income (loss) 97,247 98,489 118,801 119,454 Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC stockholders 10,577 (111,418 )(a)(b) (31,639 )(a) 18,148 (a) Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, after deduction of dividends on preferred stock, per common share basic and diluted 0.02 (0.41 )(a)(b) (0.13 )(a) 0.04 (a) Three Months Ended March31 June30 September30 December31 2008: Net revenues $ 370,621 $ 379,513 $ 384,348 $ 392,022 Operating income (loss) 69,003 68,566 75,996 78,944 Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC stockholders (13,173 ) 60,339 (c) (32,207 )(d) (63,817 )(e)(f) Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, after deduction of dividends on preferred stock, per common share basic (0.07 ) 0.20 (c) (0.13 )(d) (0.24 )(e)(f) Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, after deduction of dividends on preferred stock, per common share diluted (0.07 ) 0.19 (c) (0.13 )(d) (0.24 )(e)(f) (a) Inclusive of net gain (loss) on interest rate swaps of $(38.7) million, $(37.9) million and $13.7 million net of tax for the quarters ending June30, 2009,September30, 2009 and December31, 2009, respectively, or $(0.14) per share, $(0.13) per share and $0.05 per share, respectively. See note 8. (b) Inclusive of net losses from purchases and early retirement of debt of $64.1 million, net of tax, or $0.22 per share. See note 7. (c) Inclusive of tax benefits of $74.9 million, or $0.27 and $0.26 per basic and diluted share, respectively, resulting from the completion of an IRS examination. See note 10. (d) Inclusive of impairment charges of $23.7 million, net of tax, or $0.08 per share related to the write-down of the investment in FiberTower, classified as an available-for-sale security. See note 6. (e) Inclusive of impairment charges of $32.2 million or $0.11 per share, net of tax, related to the write-down of the investment in FiberTower, classified as an available-for-sale security. See note 6. (f) Inclusive of losses on interest rate swaps of $26.2 million or $0.09 per share, net of tax. See note 8.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	23. Subsequent Events Debt Purchases The following is a summary of the purchases of debt through January31, 2010. Principal Amount Cash Paid(a) Gain (Loss) (c) 2005 Tower Revenue Notes $ 1,638,616 $ 1,651,256 $ (15,718 ) 2006 Tower Revenue Notes (b) 223,637 236,412 (14,343 ) 2009 Securitized Notes (b) 5,000 5,250 (393 ) 9% Senior Notes 33,115 35,866 (6,175 ) 7.75% Secured Notes (b) 199,593 216,833 (26,139 ) Total Purchases $ 2,099,961 $ 2,145,617 $ (62,768 ) (a) Exclusive of accrued interest. (b) These debt purchases were made by CCIC, rather than by the subsidiaries issuing the debt, because of restrictions upon the subsidiaries issuing the debt; as a result, the debt remains outstanding at the Companys subsidiaries. (c) Inclusive of the write-off of deferred financing costs and discounts. 2010 Tower Revenue Notes On January15, 2010, indirect subsidiaries of the Company issued $1.9 billion principal amount of senior secured notes (2010 Tower Revenue Notes) pursuant to the indenture governing the existing Tower Revenue Notes. The 2010 Tower Revenue Notes are secured on a first priority basis by a pledge of the equity interests of the subsidiaries holding such towers and by certain other assets of such subsidiaries. The 2010 Tower Revenue Notes are not guaranteed by and are not obligations of CCIC or any of its subsidiaries other than the subsidiaries issuing the tower revenue notes and the indirect subsidiary of the Company that is the direct parent of those issuers. The Tower Revenue Notes will be paid solely from the cash flows generated from operations of the towers held by the issuers of the Tower Revenue Notes. The Company has used the net proceeds of the 2010 Tower Revenue Notes to repay the portion of the 2005 Tower Revenue Notes not previously purchased. The 2010 Tower Revenue Notes have a weighted-average rate of 5.75% and consist of three series of $300.0 million, $350.0 million and $1.3 billion principal amount with anticipated repayment dates of 2015, 2017 and 2020, respectively. The Company may repay the 2010 Tower Revenue Notes in whole or in part at any time after the second anniversary of the closing date, provided such repayment is accompanied by any applicable prepayment consideration. The indenture governing the Tower Revenue Notes contains covenants and restrictions customary for rated securitizations, including provisions prohibiting the issuers from incurring additional indebtedness or further encumbering their assets. The Tower Revenue Notes contain financial covenants that could result in cash being deposited in a reserve account, with such cash being applied to repay the debt. See note 7. Interest Rate Swaps As a result of the refinancing of the 2005 Tower Revenue Notes in January 2010, the Company expects to reclassify the aggregate loss recorded inaccumulated other comprehensive incomeof $155.3 million to earnings over a five-year period and recognize no ineffectiveness. Currently, the Company has not early settle

Schedule II- Valuation and Qual

Schedule II- Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Schedule II- Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II- Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	SCHEDULE IIVALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009, 2008 AND 2007 (In thousands of dollars) Additions Deductions Balanceat Beginning of Year Chargedto Operations Acquired Creditedto Operations Written Off Effect of Exchange Rate Changes Balanceat End of Year Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable: 2009 6,267 998 (1,802 ) 34 5,497 2008 6,684 1,588 (1,966 ) (39 ) 6,267 2007 3,410 1,125 3,651 (1,529 ) 27 6,684 Additions Deductions Balance at Beginning of Year Charged to Operations Acquired Credited to Operations Written Off Effect of Exchange Rate Changes Balance at End of Year Allowance for Deferred Site Rental Receivables: 2009 3,600 3,600 2008 2007 Additions Deductions Balance at Beginning of Year Credited to Operations Credited to Additional Paid-in Capital and Other Comprehensive Income Charged to Operations Charged to Additional Paid-in Capital and Other Comprehensive Income Other Adjustments(b) Balance at End of Year Deferred Tax Valuation Allowance: 2009 256,325 (32,761 ) (45,657 ) 12,941 190,848 2008 148,093 15,467 103,344 (10,579 ) 256,325 2007 279,257 15,837 2,877 (149,878 )(a) 148,093 (a) Amount relates to amounts reversed to goodwill in connection with the Global Signal Merger, amounts acquired in the Global Signal Merger and the adoption of certain amendments to accounting guidance. See note 10 to the consolidated financial statements. (b) Inclusive of the effects of exchange rate changes.

Document Information

Document Information
	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009 USD / shares
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	2009-12-31

Entity Information

Entity Information (USD $)
In Billions, except Share data	12 Months Ended Dec. 31, 2009	Feb. 05, 2010	Jun. 30, 2009
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	CROWN CASTLE INTERNATIONAL CORP
Entity Central Index Key	0001051470
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			6.6
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		292,896,876