Conversent Communications and FiberNet have completed a merger that creates a telecommunications company operating in 11 states throughout the Northeast and Mid Atlantic.

Conversent, of Marlboro, Mass., also said it has secured a $225 million debt facility from a group of investors led by Bank of America. The telco said it would use the money to expand to areas adjacent to current markets.

Robert Fanch, who founded Conversent and FiberNet, will serve as executive chairman of Conversent.

Conversent and Charleston, W.V.-based FiberNet are keeping their brands in the markets they support, and customers will not see any changes in operations, sales, service or billing, according to the companies.

Conversent and FiberNet sell telecommunications services to business customers and government and educational institutions. FiberNet also offers voice and Internet services to the residential market.