Montgomery

CENTERVILLE

Fiber optics installation

Crews have started installation of Phase II to complete the GATEway Public Fiber Network. The nearly $3 million project will facilitate connectivity among local government buildings as well as schools, non-profits and public safety facilities.

The Miami Valley Communications Council (MVCC), recognizing the importance of providing businesses and residents of its member cities enhanced access to technology, completed Phase I of the 44-mile public fiber optic network in early 2020. MVCC represents the cities of Centerville, Kettering, Germantown, Miamisburg, Moraine, Oakwood, Springboro and West Carrollton.

The fiber ring drives economic development and makes it possible for communities to share resources and save money. It is the foundation to facilitate the longterm strategic goals and Smart City initiatives for MVCC cities.

“In the year since COVID, technology has impacted nearly every aspect of our lives. In many instances, working from home is the norm rather than the exception. Having access to high-speed, reliable, competitively priced internet service is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity,” MVCC Executive Director Jay Weiskircher said.

Seven of the eight MVCC member cities funded the $1.14 million Phase 1 of the project. This involved using existing underground, municipally owned fiber and installing more than 17 miles of new fiber and conduit.

MVCC and Independents Fiber Network (IFN) recently entered into an agreement where IFN will fully fund the $1.8 million Phase II portion of the project. Phase II involves replacing existing limited capacity fiber with the same robust new fiber and conduit installed during Phase I. IFN owns some of the 10 miles of fiber connecting Springboro and Miamisburg.

The partnership with IFN has saved member cities hundreds of thousands of dollars on the original project estimate.