Springfield explores municipal fiber-to-the-home internet network (MassLive)

Read the original MassLive article here.

EXERPT:

The city will study the feasibility of establishing its own fiber-to-the-home internet network, Mayor Domenic J. Sarno’s office said Wednesday.

Sarno’s office issued a news release following a meeting with City Councilor Jesse Lederman and city department heads. Lederman said he expects a request for proposals to go out soon so the city can start learning from potential customers about what internet services are needed and at what price point.

“We need to make sure that the city of Springfield remains competitive for residents and businesses,” Lederman said. “We also want to have a focus on equity and access in our program.”

It’s complicated in Springfield because the city has no municipal light and power system, so it doesn’t have the poles and infrastructure of a Westfield or a South Hadley. Also, infrastructure is inconsistent among the 16 city neighborhoods.

“Really it is planning for the future,” Lederman said.