For the past year, telephone companies have suspended deployment of xDSL data transmission technology, halting their stretch run in the 'Infrastructure Horse Race." However, two recent developments suggest the telcos are resuming the race: 1) US West has become the first Regional Bell Operating Company (RBOC) to initiate commercial xDSL service,· and 2) a new generation of hardware makes xDSL cheaper and easier to deploy, while also making it available to more telephone users. In addition, the new hardware does not require professional installation, thereby making the equipment marketable through local electronics stores and making the transition easier and cheaper for new customers. The telcos were leading when they suspended their stretch run, and these new developments should help them to a strong finish.