In a recent move towards improving municipal broadband infrastructure, the City of Tacoma has launched a partnership with Crown Castle, a key player in shared communications infrastructure. Announced yesterday, this initiative aims to pilot a cutting-edge method of installing underground fiber optic cables. Unlike the conventional trenching techniques that can be disruptive, this new system employs a small crew that cuts, places, and seals fiber all at once, significantly minimizing traffic disruptions and environmental impact. Details of this pilot project can be found on the City of Tacoma's official website.
The approach garners attention due to its potential for higher safety standards, increased speed of deployment, and the promise of being less environmentally damaging. It's a method that seems to tiptoe around the usual cacophony of roadwork. Moreover, this new fiber utility bears an 811 registration, which assures easy removal if required. Trials for this novel installation process are set to take place around North 7th Street and Cushman Avenue and extend to North Carr Street and Tacoma Avenue.
Spoken in the spirit of innovation and community benefit, Tacoma's Mayor Victoria Woodards expressed her enthusiasm about the project. "Tacoma is committed to exploring every innovative option to bring our residents faster, safer, and more sustainable internet service," she said, according to the city's press release. Woodards elaborated on the hopes pinned on this technology to reduce the impact on public roads and support the city's leading edge in connectivity.
In the coming phases, the City will vigilantly monitor these pilot locations to evaluate the overall impact and potentially scale the project. This endeavor could pave the way for a more connected city landscape while mitigating common logistical and environmental issues associated with infrastructure upgrades. Interested parties or individuals with inquiries can reach out to Corey Newton at (253) 591-5765 or via email at [email protected], as stated in the official announcement.
