Google Considers Expanding Fiber Service To More Cities
ByGoogle Inc. is exploring "a major expansion" of its fast, fiber network to at least 30 more cities across the United States, Reuters reported.
The search giant identified on Wednesday nine urban areas encompassing up to 34 cities, including San Jose, Atlanta and Nashville as possible sites for deployment, Reuters reported.
"We aim to provide updates by the end of the year about which cities will be getting Google Fiber," Milo Medin, vice president of Google Access Services, wrote on Google's blog. "Between now and then, we'll work closely with each city's leaders on a joint planning process that will not only map out a Google Fiber network in detail, but also assess what unique local challenges we might face."
Google's fiber service is currently being offered in the Kansas City metropolitan area at rates up to $120 a month. Last Year, the web giant also announced plans to expand in Provo, Utah and Austin, Texas.
When Google started the fiber service in Kansas City, Mo., in 2011, the move was considered by some to be an experiment, rather than a new business venture, USA Today reported.
"We plan to share what we learn in these 34 cities," Medin wrote. "It might not work out for everyone. But cities who go through this process with us will be more prepared for us or any provider who wants to build a fiber network."
In the blog post, Medin said Google will also work with city leaders to try and make use of existing infrastructure - such as water, gas or electricity lines- to minimize disruption, Reuters reported.