Document:

Agreement with AlixPartners

 Exhibit 10.19 
  
 AP SERVICES, LLC 
 2000 Town Center, Suite 2400 
 Southfield, Michigan 48075 
 (248) 358-4420 
  
 February 11, 2004 
  
 Mr. David C. McCourt 
 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer 
 RCN Corporation 
 105 Carnegie Center 
 Princeton, NJ 08540 
  
 Re: Interim Management and Restructuring Services 
  
 Dear David: 
  
 This letter outlines the understanding (“Agreement”) between AP Services, LLC, a Michigan limited liability company,
(“APS”) and RCN Corporation, on behalf of itself and its subsidiaries listed on Exhibit B (collectively the “Company”), for the engagement of APS to provide certain temporary employees to the Company to assist it in its
restructuring as described below. 
  
 All defined terms shall, unless the context
otherwise requires, have the meanings ascribed to them in Schedule 1 (“Definitions and Interpretation”). 
  
 Generally, the engagement of APS, including any APS employees who serve in Executive Officer positions, shall be under the approval of the Board of Directors of the
Company and the direct supervision of you as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. 
  
 OBJECTIVE AND TASKS 
  
 APS will provide John S. Dubel to serve as the Company’s President and Chief Operating Officer (“COO”), reporting to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and the Board of Directors. Working
collaboratively with the senior management team, the Board of Directors and other Company professionals, Mr. Dubel will, in addition to his ordinary course duties as President and COO, assist the Company in evaluating and implementing strategic,
tactical and operational options through the restructuring process. Mr. Dubel will attend all Board meetings except as may be otherwise determined by the Board in appropriate circumstances. In addition to the ordinary course duties of President and
COO, the Temporary Staff roles will include working with you and your team to do the following: 
  

	•	Assist management with the development of an operational plan to restructure the Company and to maintaining it as a viable entity and drive the performance of this plan.

 Mr. David C. McCourt 
 February 11, 2004 
 Page 2 
  

	•	Drive the completion of the disposition of the Company’s non-core businesses/assets in a timely manner. 

  

	•	Assist in overseeing and driving financial performance in conformity with the Company’s business plan. 

  

	•	Assist management with the development of the Company’s revised business plan, and such other related forecasts as may be required by the bank lenders and noteholders in
connection with negotiations or by the Company for other corporate purposes. 

  

	•	Coordinate and ensure effective communications among the “working group” professionals who are assisting the Company in the reorganization process, or who are working for
the Company’s various stakeholders, to improve the effectiveness of their efforts consistent with the Company’s overall restructuring goals. 

  

	•	Manage the Company’s financial and treasury functions. 

  

	•	Provide leadership to the financial function including, without limitation, assisting the Company in strengthening the core competencies in the finance organization, particularly
cash management, planning, general accounting and financial reporting information management. 

  

	•	Develop and implement cash management strategies, tactics and processes, including the identification and implementation of both short-term as well as long-term liquidity generating
initiatives. 

  

	•	Develop and implement a communication strategy and process with respect to the Company’s stakeholders. 

  

	•	Report to the Board of Directors with respect to a key employee retention program. 

  

	•	Manage the Company’s preparations for a potential Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. Provide testimony, as may be necessary, in any bankruptcy proceeding. 

 

	•	Assist with such other matters as may be requested that fall within our expertise, including crisis management activities as are customarily provided by APS, and that are mutually
agreeable. 

 Mr. David C. McCourt 
 February 11, 2004 
 Page 3 
  

 STAFFING 
  
 APS will provide the individuals set forth on Exhibit A, herein referred to as the temporary employees (“Temporary Staff”),
subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, with the titles, pay rates, and other descriptions set forth therein. 
  
 We will keep you informed as to our staffing and will not add additional Temporary Staff to the assignment without first consulting with you to obtain your concurrence
that such additional resources are required and do not duplicate the activities of other employees or professionals. The Temporary Staff may be assisted by other professionals at various levels, as the tasks require, who would also become Temporary
Staff. 
  
 FEES AND
RETAINER 
  
 APS shall be compensated for its Services under
this Agreement at the rates set forth on Schedule 2. 
  
 We will commence this
engagement immediately upon receipt of a signed engagement letter and retainer. We will require a retainer of $750,000 to be applied against the time charges and expenses specific to the engagement and in accordance with Section 2 of the attached
General Terms and Conditions. 
  
 *
        *         * 
  
 In the event the Company seeks protection under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, the Company agrees that it will promptly apply to the Bankruptcy Court to obtain approval of our retention and retainer nunc pro tunc to the
date of the filing. 
  
 The terms and conditions set out in the attached Schedules
and the General Terms and Conditions form part of and are incorporated by reference herein to this Agreement. 
  
 If these terms meet with your approval, please sign and return the enclosed copy of this Agreement and wire transfer the amount to establish the retainer. 

 Mr. David C. McCourt 
 February 11, 2004 
 Page 4 
  

 We look forward to working with you. 
  
 Sincerely yours, 
  
 AP SERVICES, LLC 
  
 John S. Dubel 
 Principal 
  
 Acknowledged and Agreed to: 
  

			
	 RCN CORPORATION

		
	 By:
	 	  

	
	 David C. McCourt

	 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

  
 Dated: February 11, 2004 

 AP Services LLC 
 Employment by RCN Corporation 
  
 Exhibit A 
  
 Temporary Employees

 Individuals With Executive Officer Positions 
  

								
	 Name

	  	Description

	  	Hourly
Rate

	  	 Commitment
 Full1 or Part Time

	 John S. Dubel
	  	President & Chief
Operating Officer	  	$	630	  	Full Time
	 Anthony Horvat
	  	Assistant Treasurer	  	$	495	  	Full Time

  
 Additional Temporary
Employees 
  

							
	 Name

	  	Description

	  	Hourly
Rate

	  	 Commitment
 Full1 or Part2 Time

	 To be determined
	  	 	  	 	  	 

  
 The parties agree that Exhibit A can
be amended from time to time to add or delete staff, and the Monthly Staffing Reports shall be treated by the parties as such amendments. 

	1	Full time is defined as substantially full time. 

	2	Part Time is defined as approximately 2-3 days per week, with some weeks more or less depending on the needs and issues facing the Company at that time.

 AP Services LLC 
 Employment by RCN Corporation 
  
 Exhibit B 
  
 RCN Corporation Subsidiaries

  
 TEC Air, Inc. 
 RCN Financial Management, Inc. 
 RCN Internet Services, Inc. 
 UNET Holding, Inc. 
 RLH Property Corporation 
 RCN Entertainment, Inc. 
 ON TV, Inc. 
 Hot Spots Productions, Inc. 
 RCN Telecom Services of Illinois, LLC

 21st Century Telecom
Services, Inc. 
 RCN Cable TV of Chicago, Inc. 
 RCN Finance, LLC

 RFM 2, LLC 
 Brainstorm Networks, Inc. 
 RCN Telecom Services, Inc. 
 RCN International Holdings, Inc. 
 RCN Telecom Services of Massachusetts, Inc. 
 RCN Telecom Services of
Philadelphia, Inc. 
 RCN Telecom Services of Virginia, Inc. 
 RCN
Telecom Services of Washington, D.C., Inc. 
 RCN-BecoCom, LLC 
 Starpower Communications, LLC 
 RCN Charitable Foundation, Inc. 

 SCHEDULE 1 
  
 DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION 
  

					
	 Affiliate
	 	Affiliates of APS include AlixPartners, LLC, AlixPartners Ltd., AlixPartners GmbH and AlixPartners S.r.l., which are financial advisory and consulting firms, The System Advisory
Group, providing information technology services, Partnership Services, LLC, a company that provides temporary employees, and the Questor funds, which are private equity funds that invest in special situations and under-performing
companies;
		
	 Agreement
	 	the terms and conditions set out in this letter;
		
	 Break Fee
	 	the break fee (if any) payable by the Company in accordance with Schedule 2;
		
	 Confidential
 Information
	 	all written information and materials which are marked confidential or which are by their nature clearly confidential obtained under or in connection with this Agreement other
than:
			
	 	 	•	  	any information which is already in the public domain otherwise than as a result of a breach of this Agreement;
			
	 	 	•	  	any information which was rightfully in the possession of a Party prior to the disclosure by the other Party and acquired from sources other than the other Party; or
			
	 	 	•	  	any information obtained from a third party who is free to divulge such information;
		
	 Contingent Success
 Fee
	 	the success fee payable by the Company to APS, as more particularly described in Schedule 2; and
		
	 Expenses
	 	costs and expenses which are incurred by APS, its affiliates and their respective personnel in the performance of the Services, as more particularly described in Schedule
2;
		
	 Fees
	 	the fees payable by the Company to APS in accordance with Schedule 2 which, where the context requires, shall include the Break Fee and/or the Success Fee, as the case may
be;
		
	 General Terms and
 Conditions
	 	the terms and conditions attached to and forming part of this Agreement;

			
	 Party or Parties
	  	a party or the parties to this Agreement (as the case may be);
		
	 Personnel
	  	directors, officers, employees, agents, contractors and sub-contractors;
		
	 Retainer
	  	such advance payment on account of Fees and Expenses as APS shall request from the Company from time to time;
		
	 Schedules
	  	the schedules attached to and forming part of this Agreement, as such schedules may be amended from time to time in accordance with this Agreement;
		
	 Services
	  	the services to be provided by APS under this Agreement; and
		
	 Termination Date
	  	the date on which this Agreement shall terminate.

 SCHEDULE 2 
  
 FEES AND EXPENSES 
  

	1.	Hourly Fees 

  
 Our fees will be based on the hours charged at our hourly rates, which are: 
  

				
	 Principals
	  	$	540 - $690
	 Senior Associates
	  	$	430 - $520
	 Associates
	  	$	300 - $400
	 Accountants and Consultants
	  	$	225 - $280
	 Analysts
	  	$	150 - $190

  

	2.	Contingent Success Fee 

  
 In addition to hourly fees, APS will be compensated for its efforts by the payment of a Contingent Success Fee (“Success Fee”). The Company
understands and acknowledges that the Success Fee is an integral part of APS’ compensation for the engagement. 
  
 Because of the nature of this engagement, it is unclear at this time precisely how to define important elements of the Success Fee criteria. Therefore,
not later than six weeks following the beginning of the engagement, the Company and APS will make a reasonable effort to determine an incentive bonus or Success Fee based upon the value that APS is able to provide to the Company. APS and the Company
mutually agree to develop a definition of success and agreed-upon success fee criteria at within that time. It is anticipated that the level of the Success Fee would not exceed $5,000,000. 
  

	3.	Expenses 

  
 In addition to the fees set forth above, the Company shall pay directly or reimburse APS upon receipt of periodic billings, for all reasonable
out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with this assignment such as travel, lodging, postage, and actual telephone and facsimile charges. 
  

	4.	Break Fee 

  
 APS does not seek a Break Fee on this engagement. 
  

 SCHEDULE 3 
  
 DISCLOSURES 
  
 To the best of our knowledge, we believe that APS, its employees, and its affiliates do not have any financial interest or business connection with the Company other than
as contemplated by this agreement, and we know of no fact or situation that would represent a conflict of interest for us with regard to the Company. However, we have not completed a thorough check of the parties in interest with regard to the
Company. Upon receiving the information from the Company with respect to the parties in interest, APS will promptly complete a search of its relationships and will notify you of any connections APS may have with such parties in interest. 

 
 The Parties agree that this Schedule 3 may be updated from time to time to disclose
additional connections or relationships between APS and the interested parties. 

 AP SERVICES, LLC 
 GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS 
  
 These General Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) shall govern the services provided by AP Services, LLC (“APS”) as set forth in the letter agreement
executed by the Company and APS to which these Terms are attached. 
  
 Section
1. Company Responsibilities 
  
 Company will undertake responsibilities as
set forth below: 
  

	1.	Provide reliable and accurate detailed information, materials, documentation, and 

  

	2.	Make decisions and take future actions, as the Company determines in its sole discretion, on any recommendations made by APS in connection with the tasks or work product under this
Agreement. 

  
 APS’ delivery of the services and the fees
charged are dependent on (i) Company’s timely and effective completion of its responsibilities; and (ii) timely decisions and approvals made by the Company’s management. Company shall be responsible for any delays, additional costs, or
other deficiencies caused by not completing its responsibilities. 
  
 Section
2. Timing, Fees, and Expenses. 
  
 The engagement will commence immediately
upon receipt of a signed engagement letter and a retainer. 
  
 Hourly Fees.
For purposes of semi-monthly billings, our fees will be based on the hours charged at our hourly rates as set forth in the letter agreement. We review and revise our hourly billing rates effective January l of each year. 
  
 Contingent Success Fees. As described in the attached agreement. 
  
 Out-of-Pocket Expenses. In addition to hourly fees as defined in the letter agreement,
the Company shall pay directly or reimburse APS upon receipt of periodic billings for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with this assignment. 
  
 Retainer. We require a retainer to be applied against the time charges and expenses specific to the engagement. We will submit
semi-monthly invoices for services rendered and expenses incurred as described above, and will offset such invoices against the retainer. Payment will be due upon receipt of the invoices to replenish the retainer to the agreed-upon amount. Any
unearned portion of the retainer will be returned to you at the termination of the engagement. 
  
 Section 3. Relationship of the Parties. 
  
 The parties intend that an independent contractor relationship will be created by this Agreement. As an independent contractor, APS will have complete and exclusive charge of the management and operation of its business, including hiring
and paying the wages and other compensation of all its employees and agents, and paying all bills, expenses and other charges incurred or payable with respect to the operation of its business. Of course, as an independent contractor, neither the
Temporary Staff nor APS will be entitled to receive from the Company any vacation pay, sick leave, retirement, pension, or social security benefits, workers’ compensation, disability, unemployment insurance benefits, or any other employee
benefits. APS will be responsible for all employment, withholding, income and other taxes incurred in connection with the operation and conduct of its business. Temporary Staff will not be considered employees of the Company except for purposes of
this agreement. 
  
 The Company agrees to promptly notify APS if it extends (or
solicits the possible interest in receiving) an offer of employment to an employee of APS and agrees that it will pay APS a cash fee, upon hiring, equal to 150% of the aggregate first year’s annualized compensation, including any other
compensation, to be paid to any person working for the Company on behalf of APS that the Company or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates hires at any time up to two years subsequent to the date of the final invoice rendered by APS with respect to
this engagement. This agreement does not prohibit the Company from making general solicitations for employment or from soliciting for employment any individuals who have ceased to be employees or agents of APS prior to such solicitation. 

 
 Section 4. Confidentiality. 
  
 APS agrees to keep confidential all Information obtained from the Company, and neither APS
nor the Temporary Staff will disclose to any other person or entity, or use for any purpose other than specified herein, any information pertaining to the Company or any affiliate thereof, which is either non-public, confidential, or proprietary in
nature (“Information”) that it obtains or is given access to during the performance of the services provided hereunder. The foregoing is not intended to nor shall be construed as prohibiting APS or the Temporary Staff from disclosure
pursuant to a valid subpoena or court order, but neither APS nor such Temporary Staff shall encourage, suggest, invite or request, or assist in securing, any such subpoena or court order, and the Temporary Staff shall immediately give notice of any
such subpoena or court order by fax transmission to the Company. Furthermore, APS and the Temporary Staff may make reasonable disclosures of Information to third parties in connection with their performance of their obligations and assignments
hereunder. In addition, APS will have the right to disclose to others in the normal course of business its involvement with the Company. 
  
 Information includes data, plans, reports, schedules, drawings, accounts, records, calculations, specifications, flow sheets, computer programs, source or object codes,
results, models, or any work product relating to the business of the Company, its subsidiaries, distributors, affiliates, vendors, customers, employees, contractors and consultants. 
  
 The Company acknowledges that all information (written or oral) generated by the Temporary Staff in connection with their engagement is
intended solely for the benefit and use of the Company (limited to its management and its Board of Directors) in considering the transactions to which it relates. The Company agrees that no such information shall be used for any other purpose or
reproduced, disseminated, quoted or referred to with attribution to APS at any time in any manner or for any purpose other than accomplishing the tasks referred to herein, without APS’ prior approval (which shall not be unreasonably withheld)
except as required by law. 
  
 Section 5. Intellectual Property.

  
 Except for those methodologies, processes techniques, ideas, concepts and
know-how developed independently by APS or supplied in connection with this agreement and prior to this agreement (collectively known as “APS’ Work Product”), Company shall retain all right, title, and interest in and to: (i) the work
product, including but not limited to, all patent, copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property rights therein; and (ii) all methodologies, processes, techniques, ideas, concepts, and know-how embodied in the work product, (together
“the Work Product”). 

 AP SERVICES, LLC 
 GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS 
  
 APS hereby transfers and assigns to Company all right, title, and interest that APS may have in the Work Product and all intellectual property rights therein. Company
may, solely for its internal business purposes, use, copy, distribute internally, and modify the Work Product described under the letter agreement. The Company shall not, without APS’ prior written consent (which shall not be unreasonably
withheld), disclose to a third party, publicly quote, or make reference to the Work Product. Subject to the confidentiality restrictions contained in Section 4, APS may use the Work Product for any purpose. 
  
 Section 6. Framework of the Engagement. 
  
 The Company acknowledges that it is hiring the Temporary Staff purely to assist the Company
and its Board of Directors in the management and restructuring of the Company. This engagement shall not constitute an audit, review or compilation, or any other type of financial statement reporting or consulting engagement that is subject to the
rules of the AICPA, the SSCS, or other such state and national professional bodies. 
  
 Section 7. Indemnification 
  
 In bankruptcy engagements, neither
APS nor its employees not serving as officers of the Company will be entitled to indemnification provided by the Company. However, APS employees serving as officers of the Company will be entitled to the benefit of the most favorable indemnities
provided by the Company to its officers and directors, whether under the Company’s by-laws, certificates of incorporation, by contract or otherwise. The Company agrees that it will use its best efforts to specifically include and cover APS
employees serving as officers of the Company under the Company’s policy for directors’ and officers’ (“D&O”) insurance. 
  
 In non-bankruptcy engagements, it is our practice to receive indemnification. Accordingly, in consideration of our agreement to act on your behalf in connection with this
engagement, you agree to indemnify, hold harmless, and defend us (including our principals, employees, Temporary Staff and agents) from and against all claims, liabilities, losses, damages and reasonable expenses as they are incurred, including
reasonable legal fees and disbursements of counsel, and the costs of our professional time (our professional time will be reimbursed at our rates in effect when such future time is required), relating to or arising out of the engagement, including
any legal proceeding in which we may be required or agree to participate but in which we are not a party. We, our principals, employees, Temporary Staff and agents may, but are not required to, engage a single firm of separate counsel of our choice
in connection with any of the matters to which this indemnification agreement relates. This indemnification agreement does not apply to actions taken or omitted to be taken by us in bad faith. 
  
 In addition to the above indemnification, APS employees serving as officers of the Company
will be entitled to the benefit of the most favorable indemnities provided by the Company to its officers and directors, whether under the Company’s by-laws, certificates of incorporation, by contract or otherwise. In the event that other APS
employees become officers of the Company, such individuals will be entitled to the same benefit. 
  
 The Company agrees that it will use its best efforts to specifically include and cover APS employees serving as officers of the Company under the Company’s policy for directors’ and officers’
(“D&O”) insurance. In the event that the Company is unable to include APS appointees under the Company’s policy or does not have first dollar coverage as outlined in the preceding paragraph in effect for at least $10 million,
(e.g., such policy is not reserved based on actions that have been or are expected to be filed against officers and directors alleging prior acts that may give rise to a claim), it is agreed that APS will attempt to purchase a separate D&O
policy that will cover its employees and agents only and that the cost of same shall be invoiced to the Company as an out of pocket cash expense. If APS is unable to purchase such D&O insurance, then we reserve the right to terminate this
agreement. In the event that other Temporary Staff become officers of the Company, such individuals will be entitled to the same benefit. The obligations of the parties as reflected herein shall survive the termination of the engagement. 

 
 Section 8. Disclosures. 
  
 We know of no fact or situation, other than those disclosed in Schedule 3, which would
represent a conflict of interest for us with regard to the Company. 
  
 While we
are not aware of any relationships, other than those disclosed in Schedule 3, that connect us to any party in interest, because APS is a consulting firm that serves clients on a national basis in numerous cases, it is possible that APS may have
rendered services to or have business associations with other entities which had or have relationships with the Company. APS has not and will not represent the interests of any of these aforementioned entities in this case, involving the Company.

  
 Section 9. Governing Law 
  
 This letter agreement is governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State
of Michigan with respect to contracts made and to be performed entirely therein and without regard to choice of law or principles thereof. 
  
 Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this contract, or the breach thereof, shall be settled by arbitration. Each party shall appoint one non-neutral
arbitrator. The two party arbitrators shall select a third arbitrator. However, if within thirty days after their appointment the two party arbitrators do not select a third arbitrator, the third arbitrator shall be selected by the American
Arbitration Association (AAA). The arbitration shall be conducted under the AAA’s Commercial Arbitration Rules, and the arbitrators shall issue a reasoned award. The arbitrators may award costs and attorneys’ fees to the prevailing party.
Judgment on the award rendered by the arbitrators may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. However, APS agrees that the arbitration provisions shall apply only to the extent that the Bankruptcy Court, or the U.S. District Court if
the reference is withdrawn, does not retain jurisdiction over a controversy or claim. 
  
 Section 10. Termination and Survival. 
  
 This Agreement to
provide Temporary Staff hereunder may be terminated at any time by written notice by one party to the other; provided, however, that notwithstanding such termination APS will be entitled to any fees and expenses due under the provisions of the
agreement, including Contingent Success Fee and Break Fee in accordance with Schedule 2. The Break Fee is due and payable at the Termination Date. Such payment obligation shall inure to the benefit of any successor or assignee of APS. 
  
 Additionally, unless APS is terminated by the Company for Cause (as defined below) or due to
circumstances described in the Contingent Success Fee provision in the Agreement, APS shall remain entitled to the Contingent Success Fee(s) that otherwise would be payable for the greater of 12 months from the date of termination or the period of
time that that has elapsed from the date of this letter to the date of termination. Cause shall mean: 
  
 (a) an APS representative acting on behalf of the Company is convicted of a felony, or 

 AP SERVICES, LLC 
 GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS 
  
 (b) it is determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Company, and after thirty (30) days notice and opportunity to cure, either (i) an APS representative
engages in misconduct injurious to the Company, or (ii) an APS representative breaches any of his or its material obligations under this Agreement; or (iii) an APS representative willfully disobeys a lawful direction of the Board of Directors or
senior management of the Company. 
  
 Sections 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 11 shall
survive the expiration or termination of the Agreement. 
  
 Section 11.
General. 
  
 Severability. If any portion of the letter agreement
shall be determined to be invalid or unenforceable, we each agree that the remainder shall be valid and enforceable to the maximum extent possible. 
  
 Entire Agreement. The Terms and the attached letter agreement contain the entire understanding of the parties relating to the services to be rendered by APS and
may not be amended or modified in any respect except in writing signed by the parties. APS will not be responsible for performing any services not specifically described in this letter or in a subsequent writing signed by the parties. If there is a
conflict between these Terms and the letter agreement, these Terms shall govern. 
  
 Notices. All notices required or permitted to be delivered under this letter agreement shall be sent, if to APS, to the address set forth in the letter agreement, to the attention of Mr. Melvin R. Christiansen, and if to Company, to
the address set forth in the letter agreement, to the attention of your General Counsel, or to such other name or address as may be given in writing to the other party. All notices under the letter agreement shall be sufficient if delivered by
facsimile or overnight mail. Any notice shall be deemed to be given only upon actual receipt. 

  

									
	

	  	Detroit	  	New York	  	Chicago	  	Dallas

  
 March 12, 2004 
  
 Mr. David C. McCourt 
 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer 
 RCN Corporation 
 105 Carnegie Center 
 Princeton, NJ 08540 
  
 Re: Interim Management and Restructuring Services – First Amendment 
  
 Dear David: 
  
 This letter represents the first amendment (“First Amendment”) to the agreement between AP Services, LLC, a Michigan limited liability company (“APS”)
and RCN Corporation (the “Company”) dated February 11, 2004 (the “Agreement”). 
  
 Exhibit A of the Agreement is hereby replaced in its entirety by the attached Exhibit A that identifies Temporary Employees. Schedule 2 of the Agreement is hereby replaced in its entirety by the attached Schedule 2
that includes the criteria for a contingent success fee. 
  
 Except as
specifically modified by the terms specified in this letter, all of the terms and conditions of the Agreement are incorporated herein without modification. Please acknowledge your agreement by signing and returning the enclosed copy of this First
Amendment. 
  
 Sincerely, 
  
 AP SERVICES, LLC 
  
 John S. Dubel 
 Principal 
  
 Attachment 
  
 H:\Private\Christiansen\Clients\RCN Corporation\Engagement Letters\RCN First Amendment
031204.doc 
  
 Acknowledged and Agreed to: 
  

			
	 RCN CORPORATION

		
	 By:
	 	  

		
	 Its:
	 	  

		
	 Dated
	 	  

  
 2000 Town Center |
Suite 2400 | Southfield, MI | 48075 | 248.358.4420 | 248.358.1969 fax | www.alixpartners.com 

 

 
  
 AP Services, LLC

 Employment by RCN Corporation 
  
 Exhibit A 
  
 Temporary Employees 
 Individuals With Executive Officer Positions

  

								
	 Name

	  	Description

	  	Hourly
Rate

	  	 Commitment
 Full1 or Part Time

	 John S. Dubel
	  	President & Chief
Operating Officer	  	$	630	  	Full Time
	 Anthony Horvat
	  	Treasurer	  	$	495	  	Full Time
	 Gary Schafer
	  	Vice President – Finance	  	$	495	  	Full Time

  
 Additional Temporary
Employees 
  

								
	 Name

	  	Description

	  	Hourly
Rate

	  	 Commitment
 Full1 or Part2
Time

	 Ryan Esko
	  	Contracts Manager	  	$	450	  	Full Time
	 Charles Braley
	  	Cash Manager	  	$	320	  	Full Time
	 Henry Colvin
	  	Claims Management	  	$	340	  	Part Time
	 Colin Roberts
	  	Claims Management	  	$	190	  	Part Time

  
 The parties agree that Exhibit A can
be amended from time to time to add or delete staff, and the Monthly Staffing Reports shall be treated by the parties as such amendments. 

	1	Full time is defined as substantially full time. 

	2	Part Time is defined as approximately 2-3 days per week, with some weeks more or less depending on the needs and issues facing the Company at that time.

 

 
  
 SCHEDULE 2

  
 FEES AND
EXPENSES 
  

	1.	Hourly Fees 

  
 Our fees will be based on the hours charged at our hourly rates, which are: 
  

				
	 Principals
	  	$	540 - $690
	 Senior Associates
	  	$	430 - $520
	 Associates
	  	$	300 - $400
	 Accountants and Consultants
	  	$	225 - $280
	 Analysts
	  	$	150 - $190

  

	2.	Contingent Success Fee 

  
 In addition to hourly fees, APS will be compensated for its efforts by the payment of a Contingent Success Fee (“Success Fee”). The Company
understands and acknowledges that the Success Fee is an integral part of APS’ compensation for the engagement. 
  
 The Company agrees to pay APS a Success Fee of: (i) $5,000,000 upon completion of an out-of-court restructuring, the sale of a majority of the assets of
the company or upon confirmation of a Plan of Reorganization that occurs prior to September 15, 2004; (ii) $4,000,000 upon completion of an out-of-court restructuring, the sale of a majority of the assets of the company or upon confirmation of a
Plan of Reorganization that occurs after September 15, 2004 but prior to February 15, 2005; or (iii) $3,000,000 upon completion of an out-of-court restructuring, the sale of a majority of the assets of the company or upon confirmation of a Plan of
Reorganization that occurs after February 15, 2005. 
  

	3.	Expenses 

  
 In addition to the fees set forth above, the Company shall pay directly or reimburse APS upon receipt of periodic billings, for all reasonable
out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with this assignment such as travel, lodging, and postage, and actual telephone and facsimile charges. 
  

	4.	Break Fee 

  
 APS does not seek a Break Fee on this engagement.Agreement with The Blackstone Group

 Exhibit 10.20 
  
 

 
  
 March 9, 2004 
  
 Mr. David C. McCourt 
 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer 
 RCN Corporation 
 105 Carnegie Center 
 Princeton, NJ 08540 
  
 Dear David: 
  
 This letter confirms the understanding and agreement (the “Agreement”) between The Blackstone Group L.P. (“Blackstone”) and RCN
Corporation (together with any affiliates and subsidiaries, the “Company”) regarding the retention of Blackstone by the Company effective as of March 9, 2004 (the “Effective Date”) as its financial advisor for the purposes set
forth herein. 
  
 Under this Agreement, Blackstone will provide
financial advisory services to the Company in connection with a possible restructuring of certain or all liabilities of the Company and the (i) sale, merger or other disposition of all or a portion of the Company or its assets; or (ii)
arranging of debt or equity capital (collectively, a “Transaction”), and will assist the Company in analyzing, structuring, negotiating and effecting the Restructuring or Transaction pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
As used in this Agreement, the term Restructuring shall mean, collectively, (i) any restructuring, reorganization (whether or not pursuant to Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code) and/or recapitalization of the Company affecting existing
or potential debt obligations or other claims, including, without limitation, senior debt, junior debt, trade claims and general unsecured claims (collectively, the “Obligations”), and/or (ii) any complete or partial repurchase,
refinancing, extension or repayment by the Company of any of the Obligations. 
  
 The financial advisory services to be rendered by Blackstone will include the following: 
  

	 	(a)	Assist in the evaluation of the Company’s businesses and prospects; 

  

	 	(b)	Assist in the development of the Company’s long-term business plan and related financial projections; 

  

	 	(c)	Assist in the development of financial data and presentations to the Company’s Board of Directors, various creditors and other third parties; 

  

			
	 	  	

	 	  	The Blackstone Group® L.P.
	 	  	345 Park Avenue
	 	  	New York, NY 10154
	 	  	212 583-5000

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	 	(d)	Analyze the Company’s financial liquidity and evaluate alternatives to improve such liquidity; 

  

	 	(e)	Analyze various restructuring scenarios and the potential impact of these scenarios on the recoveries of those stakeholders impacted by the Restructuring; 

 

	 	(f)	Provide strategic advice with regard to a Restructuring of the Company’s Obligations; 

  

	 	(g)	Evaluate the Company’s debt capacity and alternative capital structures; 

  

	 	(h)	Participate in negotiations among the Company and its creditors, suppliers, lessors and other interested parties; 

  

	 	(i)	Advise the Company and negotiate with lenders with respect to potential waivers or amendments of various credit facilities; 

  

	 	(j)	Assist in arranging debtor-in-possession (“DIP”) financing for the Company, as requested; 

  

	 	(k)	Provide expert witness testimony concerning any of the subjects encompassed by the other financial advisory services, if necessary; 

  

	 	(l)	Assist the Company in preparing marketing materials in conjunction with a possible Transaction; 

  

	 	(m)	Assist the Company in identifying potential buyers or parties in interest to a Transaction and assist in the due diligence process; 

  

	 	(n)	Assist and advise the Company concerning the terms, conditions and impact of any proposed Transaction; 

  

	 	(o)	Seek sources of debt and equity capital in connection with a Restructuring or a Transaction; and 

  

	 	(p)	Provide such other advisory services as are customarily provided in connection with the analysis and negotiation of a Restructuring or a Transaction, as requested and mutually
agreed. 

  
 Notwithstanding anything contained in
this Agreement to the contrary, Blackstone shall have no responsibility for designing or implementing any initiatives to improve the Company’s operations, profitability, cash management or liquidity. Blackstone makes no representations or
warranties about the Company’s ability to (i) successfully improve its operations, (ii) maintain or secure sufficient liquidity to operate its business, or (iii) successfully complete a Restructuring. Blackstone is retained under this Agreement
solely to provide advice regarding a Restructuring or a Transaction, and is not being retained to provide “crisis management.” 
  
 The Company will pay the following fees to Blackstone for its financial advisory services: 
  

	 	(i)	a monthly advisory fee (the “Monthly Fee”) in the amount of $200,000 in cash, with the first Monthly Fee payable upon the execution of this Agreement by both parties and
additional installments of such Monthly Fee payable in advance on each monthly anniversary of the Effective Date; 

 Page    3 
  

	 	(ii)	an additional fee (the “Restructuring Fee”) as specified in the table below. The Restructuring Fee shall be subject to reduction (the “Transaction Credit”) by a
percentage of the aggregate Transaction Fees received by Blackstone pursuant to this Agreement. The percentage used to calculate the Transaction Credit is specified in the table below. In no event will the amount of the Transaction Credit exceed the
amount of the Restructuring Fee; nor shall the sum of (i) the Transaction Fee plus (ii) the Restructuring Fee, net of any credits, exceed $10,500,000: 

  

							
	 Date on which
 Restructuring Fee is
earned

	  	Restructuring
Fee

	  	Transaction
Credit
percentage

	 
	 Prior to September 4, 2004
	  	$	8,000,000	  	None	 
			
	 On or after September 4, 2004 but prior to March 4, 2005
	  	$	7,000,000	  	25	%
			
	 On or after March 4, 2005
	  	$	6,000,000	  	50	%

  
 Except as otherwise
provided herein, a Restructuring shall be deemed to have been consummated upon (a) the binding execution and effectiveness of all necessary waivers, consents, amendments or restructuring agreements between the Company and its creditors involving the
compromise of the face amount of such Obligations or the conversion of all or part of such Obligations into alternative securities, including equity, in the case of an out-of-court restructuring; or (b) the execution and confirmation of a Plan of
Reorganization pursuant to an order of the Bankruptcy Court, in the case of an in-court restructuring. The Restructuring Fee will be: 
  

	 	(I)	earned on the earliest of: 

  

	 	(w)	consummation of the Restructuring, 

  

	 	(x)	in the event the Company attempts to implement the Restructuring in whole or in part by means of an exchange offer, then upon commencement of the exchange offer,

  

	 	(y)	in the event that the Company attempts to implement the Restructuring by means of a prenegotiated plan of reorganization under chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code, the
receipt of sufficient commitments, agreements or other expressions of intention to accept such plan that the Company elects to file a chapter 11 case and therein represent to the Bankruptcy Court hearing such case that the Company will seek to
confirm a plan based on the prenegotiated plan, and 

 Page    4 
  

	 	(z)	in the event that the Company solicits acceptances for a prepackaged plan of reorganization under chapter 11 to implement the Restructuring, then on the date established as the
voting deadline for such acceptances or rejections, provided that at least one class of creditors impaired by such plan has accepted such plan and 

  

	 	(II)	payable, in immediately available funds, on the earliest of: 

  

	 	(A)	consummation of the Restructuring, and 

  

	 	(B)	consummation of the exchange offer. 

  
 Notwithstanding the foregoing, (a) a Restructuring specifically shall be deemed to exclude any assumption at face value of Obligations in connection with
the sale or disposition of any subsidiaries, joint ventures, assets or lines of business of the Company and (b) the restructured Obligations shall exclude any Obligations in respect of which a Restructuring Fee has previously been paid; 

 

	 	(iii)	upon the consummation of a Transaction, a Transaction fee (“Transaction Fee”) payable in cash directly out of the gross proceeds of the Transaction calculated as 2% of the
Consideration. 

  
 As used in this Agreement,
Consideration means the gross value of all cash, securities and other properties paid, payable or raised directly or indirectly, in one transaction or in a series or combination of transactions, in connection with the Transaction or a transaction
related thereto (including, without limitation, amounts paid (A) pursuant to covenants not to compete or similar arrangements and (B) to holders of any warrants, stock purchase rights, convertible securities or similar rights and to holders of any
options or stock appreciation rights, whether or not vested). Consideration shall also include the face amount of any long-term liabilities or preferred stock (including indebtedness for borrowed money and the amount set forth in the Company’s
financial statements for any pension liabilities and guarantees) indirectly or directly assumed or acquired, or otherwise repaid or retired, in connection with or in anticipation of the Transaction. Consideration shall also include the aggregate
amount of any extraordinary dividend or distribution made by the Company from the date hereof until the closing of the Transaction. If the Transaction takes the form of a purchase of assets, Consideration shall also include (i) the value of any
current assets not purchased, minus (ii) the value of any current operating liabilities not assumed, in either case as relates to the business(es) or operations being purchased. Consideration shall include all amounts paid into escrow and all
contingent payments payable in connection with the Transaction, with fees on amounts paid into escrow to be 

 Page    5 
  

 payable upon the establishment of such escrow and fees on contingent payments to be payable when such
contingent payments are made. If the Consideration to be paid is computed in any foreign currency, the value of such foreign currency shall, for purposes hereof, be converted into U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on the date or dates on
which such Consideration is paid. 
  
 In this Agreement, the
value of any securities (whether debt or equity) or other property paid or payable as part of the Consideration shall be determined as follows: (1) the value of securities that are freely tradable in an established public market will be determined
on the basis of the last market closing price prior to the public announcement of the Transaction; and (2) the value of securities that are not freely tradable or have no established public market or, if the Consideration utilized consists of
property other than securities, the value of such other property shall be the fair market value thereof as mutually agreed by the parties hereto; and 
  

	 	(iv)	reimbursement of all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred during this engagement, including, but not limited to, travel and lodging, direct identifiable data processing and
communication charges, courier services, working meals, reasonable fees and expenses of Blackstone’s counsel and other necessary expenditures, payable upon rendition of invoices setting forth in reasonable detail the nature and amount of such
expenses. In connection therewith the Company shall pay Blackstone on the Effective Date and maintain thereafter a $25,000 expense advance for which Blackstone shall account upon termination of this Agreement. 

  
 In the event that the Company is or becomes a debtor under Chapter 11 of the
Bankruptcy Code, the Company shall use its best efforts to promptly apply to the bankruptcy court having jurisdiction over the Chapter 11 case or cases (the “Bankruptcy Court”) for the approval pursuant to sections 327 and 328 of the
Bankruptcy Code of (A) this Agreement, including the attached indemnification agreement, and (B) Blackstone’s retention by the Company under the terms of this Agreement and subject to the standard of review provided in section 328(a) of the
Bankruptcy Code and not subject to any other standard of review under section 330 of the Bankruptcy Code. The Company shall supply Blackstone with a draft of such application and any proposed order authorizing Blackstone’s retention
sufficiently in advance of the filing of such application and proposed order to enable Blackstone and its counsel to review and comment thereon. Blackstone shall have no obligation to provide any services under this Agreement in the event that the
Company becomes a debtor under the Bankruptcy Code unless Blackstone’s retention under the terms of this Agreement is approved under section 328(a) of the Bankruptcy Code by a final order of the Bankruptcy Court no longer subject to appeal,
rehearing, reconsideration or petition for certiorari, and which order is acceptable to Blackstone in all respects. Blackstone acknowledges that in the event that the Bankruptcy Court approves its retention by the Company, Blackstone’s fees and
expenses shall be subject to the jurisdiction and approval of the Bankruptcy Court under section 328(a) of the Bankruptcy Code and any applicable fee and expense guideline orders; provided, however, that Blackstone shall not be 

 Page    6 
  

 required to maintain time records and, provided further, that Blackstone shall not be required to maintain receipts for
expenses in amounts less than $75. In the event that the Company becomes a debtor under the Bankruptcy Code and Blackstone’s engagement hereunder is approved by the Bankruptcy Court, the Company shall pay all fees and expenses of Blackstone
hereunder as promptly as practicable in accordance with the terms hereof. Prior to commencing a Chapter 11 case, the Company shall pay all invoiced amounts to Blackstone in immediately available funds by wire transfer. 
  
 With respect to Blackstone’s retention under sections 327 and 328 of the
Bankruptcy Code, the Company acknowledges and agrees that Blackstone’s restructuring expertise as well as its capital markets knowledge, financing skills and mergers and acquisitions capabilities, some or all of which may be required by the
Company during the term of Blackstone’s engagement hereunder, were important factors in determining the amount of the various fees set forth herein, and that the ultimate benefit to the Company of Blackstone’s services hereunder could not
be measured merely by reference to the number of hours to be expended by Blackstone’s professionals in the performance of such services. The Company also acknowledges and agrees that the various fees set forth herein have been agreed
upon by the parties in anticipation that a substantial commitment of professional time and effort will be required of Blackstone and its professionals hereunder over the life of the engagement, and in light of the fact that such commitment may
foreclose other opportunities for Blackstone and that the actual time and commitment required of Blackstone and its professionals to perform its services hereunder may vary substantially from week to week or month to month, creating “peak
load” issues for the firm. In addition, given the numerous issues which Blackstone may be required to address in the performance of its services hereunder, Blackstone’s commitment to the variable level of time and effort necessary to
address all such issues as they arise, and the market prices for Blackstone’s services for engagements of this nature in an out-of-court context, the Company agrees that the fee arrangements hereunder (including the Monthly Fee, DIP Financing
Fee, Restructuring Fee, and Transaction Fee) are reasonable under the standards set forth in 11 U.S.C. Section 328(a). 
  
 The advisory services and compensation arrangement set forth in this Agreement do not encompass other investment banking services or transactions that may
be undertaken by Blackstone at the request of the Company issuing fairness opinions or any other specific services not set forth in this Agreement. The terms and conditions of any such investment banking services, including compensation
arrangements, would be set forth in a separate written agreement between Blackstone and the appropriate party. 
  
 Except as contemplated by the terms hereof or as required by applicable law or legal process, Blackstone shall keep confidential all material non-public
information provided to it by or at the request of the Company, and shall not disclose such information to any third party or to any of its employees or advisors except to those persons who have a need to know such information in connection with
Blackstone’s performance of its responsibilities hereunder and who are advised of the confidential nature of the information and who agree to keep such information confidential. 

 Page    7 
  

 The Company will furnish or cause to be furnished to Blackstone such information as Blackstone believes
appropriate to its assignment (all such information so furnished being the “Information”). The Company recognizes and confirms that Blackstone (a) will use and rely primarily on the Information and on information available from generally
recognized public sources in performing the services contemplated by this Agreement without having independently verified the same, (b) does not assume responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the Information and such other information,
(c) is entitled to rely upon the Information without independent verification, and (d) will not make an appraisal of any assets in connection with its assignment. 
  
 In the event that the Information belonging to the Company is stored electronically on Blackstone’s computer systems,
Blackstone shall not be liable for any damages resulting from unauthorized access, misuse or alteration of such information by persons not acting on its behalf, provided that Blackstone exercises the same degree of care in protecting the
confidentiality of, and in preventing unauthorized access to, the Company’s information that it exercises with regard to its own most sensitive proprietary information. 
  
 Except as required by applicable law, any advice to be provided by Blackstone under this Agreement shall not be disclosed
publicly or made available to third parties (other than the Company’s other professional advisors or, if appropriate in the Company’s judgment, in any filings in a Chapter 11 proceeding) without the prior written consent of Blackstone. All
services, advice and information and reports provided by Blackstone to the Company in connection with this assignment shall be for the sole benefit of the Company and shall not be relied upon by any other person. 
  
 The Company acknowledges and agrees that Blackstone will provide its
financial advice exclusively to the members of the Board of Directors and senior management of the Company and not to the Company’s shareholders or other constituencies. The Board of Directors and senior management will make all decisions for
the Company regarding whether and how the Company will pursue a Restructuring or Transaction and on what terms and by what process. In so doing, the Board of Directors and senior management will also obtain the advice of the Company’s legal,
tax and other business advisors and consider such other factors which they consider appropriate before exercising their independent business judgment in respect of a Restructuring or Transaction. The Company further acknowledges and
agrees that Blackstone has been retained to act solely as financial advisor to the Company and does not in such capacity act as a fiduciary for the Company or any other person. Blackstone shall act as an independent contractor and any duties of
Blackstone arising out of its engagement pursuant to this Agreement shall be owed solely to the Company. 
  
 In consideration of Blackstone’s agreement to provide financial advisory services to the Company in connection with this Agreement, it is agreed that
the Company will indemnify Blackstone and its agents, representatives, members and employees. A copy of our standard form of indemnification agreement is attached to this Agreement as Attachment A.  

 Page    8 
  

 In the event that, as a result of or in connection with Blackstone’s engagement for the Company,
Blackstone becomes involved in any legal proceeding or investigation or is required by government regulation, subpoena or other legal process to produce documents, or to make its current or former personnel available as witnesses at deposition or
trial, the Company will reimburse Blackstone for the reasonable fees and expenses of its counsel incurred in responding to such a request. Nothing in this paragraph shall affect in any way the Company’s obligations pursuant to the separate
indemnification agreement attached hereto. 
  
 Blackstone’s
engagement hereunder may be terminated upon 30 days’ written notice without cause by either the Company or Blackstone; termination for cause by either party will occur forthwith. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (a) the provisions relating to the
payment of fees and expenses accrued through the date of termination, the status of Blackstone as an independent contractor and the limitation as to whom Blackstone shall owe any duties will survive any such termination, (b) any such termination
shall not affect the Company’s obligations under the indemnification agreement attached as Attachment A or Blackstone’s confidentiality obligations hereunder and (c) Blackstone shall be entitled to the Restructuring Fee or Transaction Fee
in the event that a Restructuring or Transaction, respectively, is consummated at any time prior to the expiration of 24 months following the termination of this Agreement. 
  
 The Company does not appear on the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List of the Office of Foreign Assets
Control of the United States Department of the Treasury, nor is it a prohibited party according to other U.S. government regulatory or enforcement agencies. 
  
 Notwithstanding anything to the contrary provided elsewhere herein, none of the provisions of this Agreement shall in any way limit the activities of
Blackstone Group Holdings L.L.C. and its affiliates in their businesses distinct from the restructuring advisory business of The Blackstone Group L.P., provided that the Information is not made available to representatives of Blackstone Group
Holdings L.L.C. and its affiliates who are not involved in the restructuring advisory business of The Blackstone Group L.P. and that appropriate “Chinese wall” measures are taken to insure confidentiality. Notwithstanding the immediately
preceding sentence, neither Blackstone Group Holdings L.L.C. nor any of its affiliates shall purchase, advise any third party regarding a purchase or otherwise participate in the purchase of the Company’s or any of its subsidiaries’ stock,
assets, claims or securities without the prior written consent of the Company. 
  
 This Agreement (including the attached indemnification agreement) embodies the entire agreement and understanding between the parties hereto and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings relating to the
subject matter hereof. If any provision of this Agreement is determined to be invalid or unenforceable in any respect, such determination will not affect the Agreement in any other respect, which will remain in full force and effect. No waiver,
amendment or other modification of this Agreement shall be effective unless in writing and 

 Page    9 
  

 signed by each party to be bound thereby. This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws
of the State of New York applicable to contracts executed in and to be performed in that state. 
  
 The Company hereby agrees that any action or proceeding brought by the Company against Blackstone based hereon or arising out of Blackstone’s
engagement hereunder, shall be brought and maintained by the Company exclusively in the courts of the State of New York located in the City and County of New York or in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York;
provided, if the Company commences a Chapter 11 case, all legal proceedings pertaining to this engagement arising after such case is commenced may be brought in the Bankruptcy Court handling such case. The Company irrevocably submits to the
jurisdiction of the courts of the State of New York located in the City and County of New York and the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and appellate courts from any thereof for the purpose of any action or
proceeding based hereon or arising out of Blackstone’s engagement hereunder and irrevocably agrees to be bound by any judgment rendered thereby in connection with such action or proceedings. The Company hereby irrevocably waives, to the fullest
extent permitted by law, any objection it may have or hereafter may have to the laying of venue of any such action or proceeding brought in any such court referred to above and any claim that such action or proceeding has been brought in an
inconvenient forum and agrees not to plead or claim the same. 

 Page    10 
  

 Please confirm that the foregoing correctly sets forth our agreement by signing and returning to
Blackstone the duplicate copy of this Agreement and the indemnification agreement attached hereto as Attachment A. 
  

			
	 Very truly yours,

	
	 THE BLACKSTONE GROUP L.P.

		
	 By:
	 	  

	 Name:
	 	 Timothy R. Coleman

	 Title:
	 	 Senior Managing Director

  

			
	 Accepted and Agreed to as
 of the date first written above:

	
	 RCN Corporation

		
	 By:
	 	  

	 Name:
	 	 David C. McCourt

	 Title:
	 	 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

 ATTACHMENT A 
  
 March 9, 2004 
  
 The Blackstone Group L.P. 
 345 Park Avenue 
 New York, NY 10154 
  
 INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT 
  
 Gentlemen: 
  
 This letter will confirm that we have engaged The Blackstone Group L.P.
(“Blackstone”) to advise and assist us in connection with the matters referred to in our letter of agreement dated as of March 9, 2004 (the “Engagement Letter”). In consideration of your agreement to act on our behalf in
connection with such matters, we agree to indemnify and hold harmless you and your affiliates and your and their respective partners (both general and limited), members, officers, directors, employees and agents and each other person, if any,
controlling you or any of your affiliates (you and each such other person being an “Indemnified Party”) from and against any losses, claims, damages, expenses and liabilities whatsoever, whether they be joint or several, related to,
arising out of or in connection with the engagement (the “Engagement”) under the Engagement Letter and will reimburse each Indemnified Party for all expenses (including reasonable fees, expenses and disbursements of counsel) as they are
incurred in connection with investigating, preparing, pursuing, defending or assisting in the defense of any action, claim, suit, investigation or proceeding related to, arising out of or in connection with the Engagement or this agreement, whether
or not pending or threatened, whether or not any Indemnified Party is a party, whether or not resulting in any liability and whether or not such action, claim, suit, investigation or proceeding is initiated or brought by us. We will not, however, be
liable under the foregoing indemnification provision for any losses, claims, damages or liabilities (or expenses relating thereto) that are finally judicially determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to have primarily resulted from the gross
negligence or willful misconduct of Blackstone. We also agree that no Indemnified Party shall have any liability (whether direct or indirect, in contract or tort or otherwise) to us or our owners, parents, affiliates, security holders or creditors
for or in connection with the Engagement except for any such liability for losses, claims, damages or liabilities incurred by us that are finally judicially determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to have primarily resulted from the gross
negligence or willful misconduct of Blackstone. 
  
 If the
indemnification provided for in the preceding paragraph is for any reason unavailable to an Indemnified Party in respect of any losses, claims, damages or liabilities 

 Page    2 
  

 referred to herein, then, in lieu of indemnifying such Indemnified Party hereunder, we shall contribute to the amount
paid or payable by such Indemnified Party as a result of such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (and expenses relating thereto) (i) in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received (or anticipated to be received)
by you, on the one hand, and us, on the other hand, from the Engagement or (ii) if and only if the allocation provided by clause (i) above is for any reason not available, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the relative
benefits referred to in such clause (i) but also the relative fault of each of you and us, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations; provided, however, to the extent permitted by applicable law, in no event shall your aggregate
contribution to the amount paid or payable exceed the aggregate amount of fees actually received by you under the Engagement Letter. For the purposes of this agreement, the relative benefits to us and you of the Engagement shall be deemed to be in
the same proportion as (a) the total value paid or contemplated to be paid or received or contemplated to be received by us, our security holders and our creditors in the transaction or transactions that are subject to the Engagement, whether or not
any such transaction is consummated, bears to (b) the fees paid or to be paid to Blackstone under the Engagement Letter (excluding any amounts paid as reimbursement of expenses). 
  
 Neither party to this agreement will, without the prior written consent of the other party (which consent will not be
unreasonably withheld), settle or compromise or consent to the entry of any judgment in any pending or threatened claim, action, suit or proceeding in respect of which indemnification may be sought hereunder (a “Judgment”), whether or not
we or any Indemnified Party are an actual or potential party to such claim, action, suit or proceeding. In the event that we seek to settle or compromise or consent to the entry of any Judgment, we agree that such settlement, compromise or consent
(i) shall include an unconditional release of Blackstone and each other Indemnified Party hereunder from all liability arising out of such claim, action, suit or proceeding, (ii) shall not include a statement as to, or an admission of, fault,
culpability or a failure to act by or on behalf of Blackstone or each other Indemnified Party, and (iii) shall not impose any continuing obligations or restrictions on Blackstone or each other Indemnified Party. 
  
 Promptly after receipt by an Indemnified Party of notice of any complaint or
the commencement of any action or proceeding with respect to which indemnification is being sought hereunder, such person will notify us in writing of such complaint or of the commencement of such action or proceeding, but failure to so notify us
will not relieve us from any liability which we may have hereunder or otherwise, except to the extent that such failure materially prejudices our rights. If we so elect or are requested by such Indemnified Party, we will assume the defense of such
action or proceeding, including the employment of counsel reasonably satisfactory to Blackstone and the payment of the fees and disbursements of such counsel. 
  

In the event, however, such Indemnified Party reasonably determines in its judgment that having common counsel would present such counsel with a
conflict of interest or if we fail to assume the defense of the action or proceeding in a timely manner, then such Indemnified Party may employ separate counsel reasonably satisfactory to us to represent or defend it in any such 

 Page    3 
  

 action or proceeding and we will pay the fees and disbursements of such counsel; provided, however, that we will not be
required to pay the fees and disbursements of more than one separate counsel for all Indemnified Parties in any jurisdiction in any single action or proceeding. In any action or proceeding the defense of which we assume, the Indemnified Party will
have the right to participate in such litigation and to retain its own counsel at such Indemnified Party’s own expense. 
  
 The foregoing reimbursement, indemnity and contribution obligations of the Company under this agreement shall be in addition to any rights that an
Indemnified Party may have at common law or otherwise, and shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of any successors, assigns, heirs and personal representatives of the Company and such Indemnified Party. 
  
 The provisions of this agreement shall apply to the Engagement and any
written modification of the Engagement and shall remain in full force and effect regardless of any termination or the completion of your services under the Engagement Letter. 

 Page    4 
  

 This Agreement and the Engagement Letter shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws
of the State of New York applicable to contracts executed in and to be performed in that state. 
  

			
	 Very truly yours,

	
	 RCN Corporation

		
	 By:
	 	  

	 Name:
	 	 David C. McCourt

	 Title:
	 	 Chairman and CEO

  

			
	 Accepted and Agreed to as of the date first written above:

	
	 THE BLACKSTONE GROUP L.P.

		
	 By:
	 	  

	 	 	 Timothy R. Coleman

	 	 	 Senior Managing Director

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