Local News
Fiber Optic Contract Approved
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Aug 6, 2008, 02:00

"We are not where we need to be, but we are a lot further along than we thought we would be, because we have developed a work-around to not hit any AT&T poles." Mark Tabor told City Council Tuesday night.  Mr Tabor is the City of Thomasville's Technical Services Superintendent.

Mark Tabor to Council

Council voted to enter into a contract with the City of Thomasville for the installation of a fiber optic network for the City of Bainbridge.  The 1 gigabit fiber is run to Whigham at this time, waiting for access to poles in order to bring it into Bainbridge.

Mr Tabor stated Georgia Power has begun to make ready the 436 poles to be utilized to run the fiber line.  Chris Hobby stated that AT&T refused to allow access to their poles.

When pole agreements are in place, it will take 12-15 weeks to have the cable run.  Mr Tabor stated at that point, it would not take very long to build out the network.

Chris Hobby stated the project is on track to be completed in the first quarter of next year.  Revenue to pay for the network will come primarily from the school system and e-rate funds they will receive.  Mr Hobby anticipates the network to be paid for in approximately 4 years.

The network will provide fast internet access to 11 Decatur County Schools and facilities as well as City Hall, Leisure Services, City Purchasing, Public Works and Public Safety.  Mr Tabor stated it would be up to the City to decide when and if to make the network available to commercial and other entities.

Immediate potential customers include the hospital, Decatur County and larger businesses.  Another option, which many other communities have established, is to provide wireless access to local residents.