Fujitsu Network Communications, Inc. revealed that it has managed the deployment of a 53-mile fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) network for Craig-Botetourt Rural Electric Cooperative (CBEC) of New Castle, VA. The FTTP network deployment, funded via the CARES Act, will enable CBEC to offer internet and phone services to its members, who are located in a heavily forested, mountainous area of southwestern Virginia near Roanoke.
Fujitsu supplied a variety of services for the deployment, including network design and build-out, multivendor equipment and software procurement, network integration, testing and service turn-up. Work began in February 2020 and Fujitsu reports that the scope of the project was increased with a second phase in October. Nevertheless, the roll-out met the CARES deadline of December 31, 2020, with the second phase completed in eight weeks. Overall, the FTTP broadband network passes 700 addresses.
CBEC will use the FTTP network to offer its Bee Online Advantage internet services at symmetrical transmission rates ranging from 50 Mbps up to 300 Mbps. Voice services are available separately or bundled with internet. Fujitsu says CBEC has gained 155 subscribers since the services launched on February 1, 2021.
“The response from our community is overwhelmingly positive. Improved broadband means a better quality of life for our members, attracting new residents to the area and encouraging existing residents to stay when they might have otherwise moved,” said Jeff Ahearn, CEO of CBEC. “The ability of Fujitsu to efficiently manage the overall project while accommodating a very tight turnaround means that we can deliver unmatched, next-generation fiber broadband services to our members at a time when they are most needed.”
“Being connected with reliable, affordable, high-speed broadband has become a must-do for the economic vitality of communities of all sizes,” added Greg Manganello, senior vice president and head of wireless and service solutions, Fujitsu Network Communications, Inc. “We applaud CBEC’s vision as well as our partner’s support that enabled us to complete the network expansion in record time despite pandemic challenges. Now local families, schoolchildren, and businesses can be online, fully engaged, and productive in creating their best future.”
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