Ohio adds to ultra-fast broadband network, upgrades first responders

Ohio is rapidly building out its ultra-fast broadband network with a new upgrade for first responders. Broadband contractors Tellabs and Agile Networks are leading this part of the effort. In addition to emergency services, the network will enable video monitoring, surveillance and smart grid management. The network is a key initiative of the Kasich Administration which is pushing for a statewide 100gbps network.

In addition to official access points for first responders, and smart grid management, 3 million residences will be included in the Tellabs/Agile Networks effort. The state will also eliminate its dependency on leased T1 lines and is expected to see improved cost efficiencies by moving to a fiber network.

“Ohio will have the first network of its kind to provide metropolitan infrastructure to micropolitan communities,” said Kyle Quillen, CTO at Agile Networks. “The network will position Ohio as a leader in a state-wide broadband infrastructure, leveling a playing field for many communities that currently do not have reliable broadband services.”

As CivSource reported last month, more cities are signing on to the statewide network project which is moving into its second phase of expansion. At an event in February, the Governor highlighted plans for the network including the creation of a state-of-the-art medical education and health care corridor that will leverage state university and hospital campuses to build out the state’s health sector. The Governor hopes that the initiative will attract health companies to Ohio and foster economic development.

The project has a variety of state partners in addition to local universities, hospitals, Tellabs and Agile Networks, including – Chesapeake Energy, and Connect Ohio, a division of Connected Nation a broadband advocacy group. Initial network deployment will begin in the third quarter of this year and include locations in Southeast Ohio and five cities across the state. These locations will serve as future network expansion sites. The five cities are Akron, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton and Toledo.