Akron (OH) Mayor Shammas Malik announced yesterday a partnership with SiFi Networks, a national fiber network developer. Akron will provide SiFi with access to the rights-of-way with a goal of creating a citywide fiber optic network and affordable, high-quality internet access for all residents.
SiFi Networks said it plans to invest over $200 million to install, maintain and operate an underground fiber optic network throughout Akron at no cost to the city, enabling citywide digitization while supporting economic growth. In addition, SiFi has agreed to reimburse the city for costs associated with expediting review of permits during the project.
In recent months, SiFi also reached an agreement with the City of Cleveland to provide their citizens with a similar network. Malik said the city continues to explore additional partnerships with Summit Connects in which Summit County is building a public safety fiber ring. The network will connect all 31 communities across the county, with the opportunity for residential and commercial internet service.
“In 2024, it is essential that every person in Akron has access to high-speed, affordable internet,” said Malik. “Through this partnership with SiFi, every resident and business in Akron will have access to fiber internet, and SiFi has agreed to work with us to subsidize rates. I’d like to thank all of the City staff who have put in many hours over the last year vetting this partnership in order to move the needle on providing internet access for our residents.”
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