Ohio Awards Com Net $20 Million to Build 257-Mile U.S. 30 Broadband Backbone

1 articles · Updated · Richland Source · Jul 30

$20 million in state funding will pay Com Net to build a 257-mile middle-mile fiber network along U.S. 30 across northern Ohio, with the contract announced Thursday.
The largely underground line will run through 15 counties using existing right-of-way, aiming to lower barriers for internet providers to extend high-speed service to homes, businesses and public institutions.
Com Net must keep the infrastructure commercially available for at least 20 years and complete it within 24 months of construction starting; Ohio Gig will handle construction.
Mansfield Lahm Air National Guard Base and the 179th Cyberspace Wing will get a new Point of Presence, while OARnet will oversee the state's fiber capacity and possible access for schools, libraries and healthcare facilities.
State and local officials cast the Route 30 project as a backbone for economic growth in rural communities, with local backers already discussing a possible future extension west toward Chicago.