How To

Community Fiber Optic Network methodologies in use today.

Method 1)
The public entity builds the backbone dark fiber infrastructure.  They can use the facilities for their own purposes and then allocate additional fibers to third party approved providers that extend the connections, and implement all of the lit equipment.  A percentage of gross revenue generated by the providers goes back into the public entity to help fund future expansion.  This generally ends up being a $0 cost model to the public entity as they have built or are building fiber for their own needs, and in fact generates revenue for expansion, much like water and sewer.  This is how the Port of Bellingham’s HTCI network works.

Method 2)
The public entity builds the fiber, and implements a PON based system to distribute communications.  This requires public man hours, equipment, engineering, and maintenance.  The system can be subcontracted out, or run in house and can succeed if implemented correctly.  This is how the City of Mount Vernon’s system works.