What does the Google Fiber Optic Experiment mean to the Trenchless Industry?

By Renée Lauzon-Martin - VP Operations - March 18, 2010

Last month, Google announced its plans to build an experimental fiber-to-the-home network in select cities that would offer unprecedented internet speeds - about 100 times faster than what most Americans have today. Google hopes to galvanize undreamed innovation, but more importantly, to prompt communities, consumers and the FCC to demand better broadband infrastructure.

Communities have been frantically vying to be the test location for Google's experiment - going so far as to rename their city "Google" (formerly Topeka, Kan.). The Mayor of Sarasota, Fla., went swimming with the sharks while the Mayor of Duluth, Minn jumped into a frozen lake. Facebook groups and website abound, all in an effort to land the ultra-progressive fiber optic network.

Though Google has yet to detail exactly how they intend to install the fiber optics network, they have said they are "interested in working with communities to rapidly install fiber optic facilities and offer the ultra high-speed Internet access services". Furthermore, the Google application goes on to say "Google respects the legitimate responsibility of local governments to preserve and protect community assets, minimize disruptions, ensure the safety of the public and address aesthetic concerns and property values and obtain reasonable compensation for the use of public assets."

Is Google Fiber the future? Certainly the prospect of hyper-fast internet has stirred consumers and communities into a media frenzy. More significantly, it will incite demand for a better, faster network which will need to be supported by right kind of technology. And since Trenchless Technology fits neatly with the scope of Google's revolutionary plans, that can only mean good news for us all.



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