Municipal Funded Fiber Optic Network Models Show Creative Solutions

As we move into the heart of the fiber network build season in 2016, we see more and more municipalities, to include Cities, Towns and Townships making an investment in fiber optic networks.   Fiber Optics has become a significant economic development engine, much like roads, power, water and sewers have been for the past half-century.  Yates Engineering Services staff has recognized that each municipality is different, and their needs must dictate which of the more than 12 models we have studied might be the best fit.  It is likely that none of them will be a match – and your town’s unique set of variables will call for a new or different solution, customized for an exact set of needs!

There is always something that can be accomplished, even if it is just a new ordinance or policy that calls for developers and municipal funded contractors to include empty conduit for future fiber in all of their street cuts and builds.  To make things even more challenging there are still 20 states that limit or prohibit municipally-owned fiber networks with restrictions imposed by state law.  But even in these states, the never ending demand for better internet bandwidth is driving change and creative solutions.  If a city or town does not have a fiber strategy, then their residents and businesses will be left behind. 

Fiber network infrastructure such as buried conduit can be expensive.  But planning for and discussing options does not have to be!  Let Yates Engineering help your city or town select a Fiber to the Premise design model so that your city can support fiber deployment, or at least determine what is feasible and how much investment is required for solutions that can move your economic development plan forward. Investments made in expanding your fiber network knowledge base and brainstorming ideas with key stakeholders in your area will always pay dividends!