Dark Fiber

Zayo, provider of provider of fiber-based bandwidth infrastructure and network-neutral collocation and interconnection services, announced that it is participating in the construction of a new fiber optic network across Western Ohio. The network connects Toledo to Columbus and covers multiple underserved towns throughout Western Ohio.

The federal Recovery Act Broadband Technology Opportunities Program awarded Com Net, Inc., $30 million, in which Zayo is a sub-recipient, in support of Com Net's GigE Plus Availability Coalition (GigEPAC) project to provide rural and underserved communities in Western Ohio with broadband services. Through this project, 28 western Ohio counties will be provided with broadband services.

"The construction of this fiber network represents a significant milestone in the economic development of western Ohio communities,” Matt Erickson, president of Zayo Fiber Solutions, said. “Partnering with GigE Pac, led by Com Net, Zayo can support the delivery of high speed bandwidth to the underserved businesses and organizations in western Ohio."

The new broadband fiber network will deliver schools, public safety agencies, and local and state governments and libraries as well as community service organizations with connectivity. Furthermore, local service providers will be provided with connectivity to the network which will allow them to expand their customer base.

Tim Berelsman, CEO, Com Net, said, "Com Net is excited to continue with the construction project, join in the national broadband rollout and accelerate the deployment of reliable high-speed services to rural western and central Ohio. The construction of Zayo's 366 miles of fiber optic plant will connect with existing facilities of Com Net and its partners to create the backbone of a new, highly survivable, broadband infrastructure that serves as an enabler for economic development throughout the region."

By providing connectivity to the GigE Plus open network to local service providers, the project will help in the creation of avenues for affordable broadband access for local and business customers in the region. Additionally, the project will help drive investment growth across the economically weak counties which can help improve employment rates.