City of Alexandria residents have long complained about a lack of choice when it comes to cable and internet service.
Now, City officials are taking a step that could lead to more consumer choice.
The City of Alexandria put out an invitation for companies to bid on a City-owned fiber optic network that would support broadband to government buildings, schools, libraries, public safety communications systems and Smart Mobility traffic and transportation initiatives.
"The Municipal Fiber project will create potential partnership opportunities to expand consumer choice and increase available speeds for broadband services available in Alexandria," according to the City. "In response to consistent feedback regarding the lack of options for cable television and broadband Internet services, the City has actively pursued other potential providers. With the construction of the new fiber optic network, the City is planning to seek new partners who could lease excess conduit space to provide broadband service to residents and businesses. This would allow all providers to compete fairly, and would encourage providers to offer consumer services."
Building a fiber optic network to replace the current I-Net network won't be cheap. Even before the bids come in, the City is trying to place fiber optics network "conduits" in places where current digging makes it feasible. The City will award a contract in early 2020 and construction on a new network may start in the spring of 2020.
There is no timeline for when or whether city homeowners would be able to switch service providers or opt into fiber optics service.
