PocketiNet taps Huawei for gigabit FTTH in Washington State

PocketiNet Communications says it plans to offer gigabit fiber to the home (FTTH) in its home territory in Washington State, starting with Walla Walla. The company will use GPON systems, as well as switches and routers, for the FTTH deployment, which will be privately funded.

The local service provider says it will borrow Google Fiber's "fiberhood" strategy of determining where to deploy and in which order. The four neighborhoods announced are Palouse, Boyer, Cottonwood, and Plaza-Taumarson. PocketiNet expects to complete initial deployments of the gigabit fiber-optic network in 12-15 months, using a combination of underground and aerial techniques.

PocketiNet, majority-owned by Vancouver-based Columbia Ventures Corp., serves the Mid-Columbia Basin region of Washington, from Walla Walla to Yakima and south to Umatilla, OR. The company has not revealed its plans to extend its gigabit FTTH footprint beyond the four initial neighborhoods in Walla Walla.

As has been the case with many such deployments, local leaders see the impending gigabit FTTH network as a key ingredient for economic expansion. "We are delighted that PocketiNet Communications and Huawei have partnered to launch this gigabit initiative. With our established business community, growing wine region, and rich culture, Walla Walla Valley is often seen as the next Napa Valley. Turning Walla Walla into Gigabit Country is exciting as it will help to propel the development of the region as a tourist destination," said Jerry Cummins, Walla Walla's mayor.

For more information on FTTx equipment and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer's Guide.