(Omaha, NE) -- A new internet service option is coming to Omaha.
On Wednesday, it was announced that Google Fiber is planning to add Omaha to the growing number of cities offering its high- speed internet service to residential and small business customers. The City of Omaha says the City Council will consider the license agreement with Google Fiber next month. The City says the agreement allows the company to install, maintain and operate a fiber optic network in the public right- of-way. “New and expanding technologies are important to our city’s growth, to attract new residents and new business,” said Mayor Jean Stothert. “Our role is always to help businesses locate and grow in Omaha. Google Fiber is a perfect fit for the growing tech sector of our economy.”
The mayor's office says the agreement includes requirements for construction permits, notice to property owners before construction work begins, bonds and insurance. It will be in effect for ten years and then automatically renew thereafter. “Fast, reliable internet is a necessity for everyone in today’s world,” said Rachel Merlo, Head of Government and Community Affairs - Central Region for Google Fiber. “We’re excited to start connecting Omaha residents to whatever they need and want to do online.”
The fiber network is currently in design and construction is expected to begin in 2023, with service available as segments of the network are completed. In August, Google Fiber announced it would focus expansion on five additional states, including Nebraska. Omaha will be the company’s 19th market. Residents can find more information on Google Fiber’s website.
The license agreement will be on the City Council agenda for 1st reading on October 4. Google is building a data center near State Street and Blair High Road in Omaha. It is their third data center in the area; the others are in Papillion and Council Bluffs.