GigabitNow chosen as web service supplier for Columbus’ new fiber-to-home community

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Builders on Columbus’ new fiber-to-home community have chosen an web service supplier (ISP) to administer broadband service.

GigabitNow will serve as the supplier for fiber networks that Hoosier Networks LLC is creating in Columbus, Bloomington and Shelbyville, which are anticipated to present high-speed web to at least 70,000 residences and companies throughout the three cities, metropolis officers mentioned..

It’s anticipated that Columbus residents will be ready to signal up for service in early 2023, with closing residents receiving service by the finish of 2024. Group members can go to gigabitnow.com/columbus/ to study extra and pre-register to obtain info about service availability.

“We are excited to accomplice with GigabitNow and these Hoosier municipalities to present higher, sooner fiber-based connectivity, which will foster better financial, instructional, and entrepreneurial alternatives effectively into the future,” mentioned Nicolas Rubio, Meridiam Chief Government Officer, Americas, in an official assertion. “This announcement is additional proof of our dedication to fill vital fiber infrastructure gaps and assist shrink the digital divide.”

GigabitNow is a division of IsoFusion, one of Washington state’s largest privately held full-service ISP and colocation suppliers. It was chosen by Hoosier Networks for its “experience and monitor document of working inside native communities.”

Hoosier Networks is a fiber community utility supplier established by Meridiam, which has agreed to create a fiber-to-home community that officers say will attain at least 85% of Columbus.

Columbus Metropolis Council lately authorised a tax abatement for Hoosier Networks that will save the firm 95% on private property taxes each 12 months for 20 years on $28 million in new tools for the undertaking. Metropolis officers additionally plan to use $250,000 in American Rescue Plan funds to assist cowl the price of connection for low-income residents.

Senior Funding Director Nick Phillips informed Columbus officers in July that Meridiam will initially have an unique contract with one ISP. The contract will be for 5 years with the possibility for two one-year extensions, making the most time period seven years. After the preliminary contract interval is over, Meridiam will then be open to forming agreements with different suppliers.

For extra on this story, see Friday’s Republic.