Beginnings:
The Eugene Downtown Fiber Project began with the Eugene Community Broadband Plan. The original concept proposed using steam pipes to serve downtown. There were three purposes identified:
- Publicly controlled infrastructure (carrier neutral)
- All buildings having broadband access
- All service providers have open access
Pilot Project:
- Chose electrical conduit instead of steam pipes (serves more, less cost maintenance)
- Installed microduct for eventual full build
- Initial pilot chosen for proximity, quality and number of potential customers
- Building internal wiring: open access through public control
- Funded by Eugene Telecommunication Project Funds, EWEB and LCOG funds
Pilot Project Results:
- Take rate of 80%+ among two competitive providers
- Competition created world quality service: gigabit for $99 a month
- Customers getting Internet connectivity and enhanced Cloud access
- Feasibility and price for larger project established
- Fostered great demand / support for larger project
Next Step: Fiber for All of Downtown:
- Replicate Pilot Project for the entire Downtown
- Design system to serve all Downtown (150+ buildings).
- Initial run 125 buildings (omitting already served, vacant buildings, parking areas)
- Install microduct, blow and terminate fiber
Downtown Fiber Project Map
