Update on Hoosier Networks Fiber-Network Project Construction

Bloomington, Ind.–Construction of the new city-wide fiber-to-the-home network is vigorously underway, with more than 150,000 feet of underground fiber optic conduit already installed. 

Atlantic Engineering Group, contracted by Hoosier Fiber Networks, has placed conduit to serve more than 2,300 homes in the northeast part of the city – a more than 50% increase in footage and reach since early January.  

Following a permit delay to accommodate necessary and unrelated roadworks, the network is expected to be available by the end of March 2023. Multi-gigabit Internet services will be available to residents and businesses for order via the GigabitNow website at that time.

GigabitNow will offer service of at least 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) symmetrical (equal upload and download) speed everywhere the network reaches, which is optimal for fast downloads at an increased bandwidth. Residents who pre-register for GigabitNow notifications and future service offerings will receive firsthand information on network progress. Those who pre-register will have priority access to place orders for service via an exclusive electronic invitation that will go out when the service is ready in March. All residents can learn more and pre-register at no cost or obligation at gigabitnow.com/bloomington or by calling 866-748-8066.  

“This is an important step in equipping Bloomington with the infrastructure that enables fiber-based high-speed internet throughout the city,” said Bill Abston, CEO, Hoosier Fiber Networks.

The City and Hoosier Networks continue collaborating on one of the country’s most innovative broadband public-private collaborations, helping low-income and digitally disadvantaged households access top-quality internet services. 

“We continue to make progress on our goal of serving all Bloomingtonians with the high-quality, high-speed internet they need to live, work and learn in the 21st century,” said Mayor John Hamilton. “Seeing the future of digital access and equity arriving in Bloomington is energizing as we keep advancing the high quality of life in Bloomington, and it’s inspiring to be collaborating on the nation’s best digital equity program for our residents.” 

Eligible low-income residents may qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Plan (ACP) to receive at least a symmetrical 250 megabits per second (Mbps) plan at reduced -- or no cost to the user if ACP is applied. To learn more about the City of Bloomington’s Digital Equity program, visit bloomington.in.gov/digital-equity.  

Background

Since 2016, the Hamilton administration has prioritized establishing a community-wide high-speed fiber network to provide broad and equitable access to this essential 21st-century technology. The primary goals have been broad community coverage, a voice at the table for the City, a financially feasible business model, open access and net neutrality, and a commitment to digital equity. 

After several explorations of prospective partnerships and nearly a year of discussions and site visits, the City signed a Master Development Agreement with Hoosier Fiber Networks. Since Hoosier Fiber Networks announced its plans in May 2022 and subsequent launch in October 2022 to bring high-speed internet access to all of Bloomington, the City of Bloomington and Hoosier Fiber Networks have prepared to enter the operations phase of this transformational project.

Hoosier Fiber Networks announced on September 13 its partnership with GigabitNow as the primary ISP (Internet Service Provider) under the Hoosier Fiber Networks agreement with the City (https://bton.in/0lATD).

Under the Hoosier Fiber Networks agreement with the City, GigabitNow is the exclusive ISP for at least a five-year term. After the exclusivity period ends, the network may become a full open-access network, open to other ISPs, including local providers, for the lifetime of the network. 

Hoosier Fiber Networks is based in Bloomington and plans to grow here as its footprint expands within the state. Columbus, Shelbyville, and Bartholomew County have Hoosier Fiber Networks projects underway and are moving forward following Bloomington’s lead.