Brookhaven has put the brakes on Google Fiber's expansion through the city, imposing a citywide stop work order after a crew hit a gas main close to Montgomery Elementary School on Ashford Dunwoody Road. This move came in response to an incident last Friday and follows various complaints from nearly 100 residents this year regarding the ongoing construction related to Google Fiber's infrastructure project, as reported by Rough Draft Atlanta.
Citing this disruption and others, including damaged sidewalks, burst water mains, and disturbed landscaping Brookhaven officials have pressed pause on the operations, stating a need to reassess the procedures in place for public safety, this according to a statement made to Fox 5 Atlanta, added that the health and safety of residents particularly children, cannot be compromised—this concern taking precedence over the utility's work to install its network which only 30% complete as of yet.
Both media outlets highlighted that local city council members have expressed significant concerns over the safety and coordination of utilities operating in the area. "Utilities of the magnitude of Google Fiber, Atlanta Gas, and DeKalb Watershed Management have vast resources of staff and finance to affect the delivery of these critical services to residents," City Council member Madeleine Simmons told Fox 5 Atlanta, it's Brookhaven that's stepping up to ensure that these entities work in sync for the community's benefit, she added.
No timeline for resumption of the work has been provided but city officials stress that the suspension will remain until stronger safety measures are established, with Mayor Pro Tempore John Funny highlighting to Fox 5 Atlanta the priority to uphold stringent standards for safety, quality, and restoration, holding Google Fiber accountable for any disruptions and demanding prompt address of any damages to maintain trust and clear communication with the city's residents and businesses is a must.
As for Google Fiber's response to the incidents and the work stoppage— a spokesperson said, "Google Fiber takes construction issues very seriously and follows local guidelines during the process, including locating any existing utilities before beginning work," further stating in comments given to Rough Draft Atlanta that the company is working with the appropriate entities to address the Brookhaven incident and residents can reach out with any construction concerns anytime.
