Zayo details western Ohio broadband network build

Fiber-optic network services provider Zayo says that it is part of a project to build a new fiber-optic network across western Ohio The network, funded via the broadband stimulus program, will connect Toledo to Columbus and covers multiple underserved towns throughout the western part of the state.

Com Net, Inc. has received $30 million from the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) for the GigE Plus Availability Coalition (GigEPAC) project. Zayo is a sub-recipient of this award and member of GigEPAC, along with Com Net, The Ohio Academic Resources Network (OARnet), and an initial group of 33 broadband service providers to deploy broadband to 28 western Ohio counties.

"The construction of this fiber network represents a significant milestone in the economic development of western Ohio communities," said Matt Erickson, president of Zayo Fiber Solutions. "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 project will add nearly 366 new miles of fiber to Zayo's existing Ohio network and will expand existing broadband services through the GigEPAC partners to rural and underserved communities in 28 western Ohio counties. The network build aims to provide connectivity to anchor institutions such as schools, state and local governments, public safety entities, libraries, and community support organizations. The project also will enable local service providers to connect to the open network to serve additional customers.

"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," says Tim Berelsman, CEO, Com Net. "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."