Fiber optic internet is the fastest and most environmentally friendly internet technology currently available. Typically, it is competitive in price to other broadband internet services, such as cable, 5G, and DSL, although it is usually faster and uses less electricity. Since electricity is ultimately a big part of what you're paying for when you buy internet service, this helps make fiber internet competitive with 5G wireless, cable, and DSL internet in price.
And because fiber optic cables are made from the second most abundant element on Earth, silicon dioxide (aka silica), not only does using fiber have a lower carbon footprint than using copper lines, it's also much less destructive to obtain than copper. No heavy mining operations are needed, and there are no noxious chemicals produced in the course of obtaining silica. Indeed, silica is so harmless that it is even FDA approved for use as a food additive.
Now, thanks to a project Kanawha based Communications 1 (aka Comm1) will be starting in Eagle Grove this summer, this technology will soon be available in Eagle Grove. The company plans to update the city's internet and communications infrastructure, bringing fiber internet to homes and businesses in Eagle Grove. Comm1 is a 120 year old Iowa company which recently completed an acquisition of Goldfield Telephone and Goldfield Access Network. "We are delighted to provide service in over 10 communities across 4 Iowa Counties and we are now prepared to put state of the art fiber services into Eagle Grove," said Comm1 Director of Operations Jared Johnson in an email to the Eagle.
The company expects the project to take 3 to 4 years to complete. The first lines are planned to run north of Broadway and west of the railroad tracks, in the NW corner of town. "Our goal is to place a fiber line to every residence and business,"said Johnson, who stressed that installation is free, does not require signing up to the service, and valuable. "Similar to your Gas, Electric, CATV, this is infrastructure that adds value to your property and gives you options for your telecommunications service," Johnson said.
Johnson also stressed that Comm1 has met with the city, and their plans are designed to minimize any impact to private property. But if "for any reason" a landowner doesn't want to have the lines installed for free, they will need to contact Comm1's office and officially decline. And Johnson cautions that for property owners who choose to decline free installation, to install at a later time will be charged on a per foot basis. Those who still wish to decline can call the Comm1 offices during regular business hours at 641-762-3772 (or toll free at 800-469-3772).
