The City of Lehi announced that its Lehi Fiber Network, an open-access infrastructure owned by the city, allows residents and businesses to choose from a variety of internet service providers to access high-speed connectivity. The network, which operates in partnership with Strata Networks, provides users with the flexibility to select an internet service provider that best fits their specific needs from a curated list of options.
Network Capabilities and Benefits
The Lehi Fiber Network is designed to provide high-performance connectivity, including multi-gig internet speeds and virtually unlimited bandwidth potential. According to the City of Lehi, the network is intended to offer a more reliable internet connection for the community compared to traditional options.
Provider Selection and Pricing
Under the open-access model, residents and businesses do not receive service directly from the city. Instead, they must select an internet service provider (ISP) from a list of available partners to establish a connection. The city noted that pricing for residential services varies depending on the selected provider, and customers are encouraged to visit individual ISP websites for specific rates as services become available in their specific area.
Available Service Providers
The city identified several internet service providers currently available on the network. These include CentraCom, Beehive Broadband, Intellipop, Sumo Fiber, and XMission. While residential pricing is determined by the individual ISPs, the city stated that prices include all necessary operational and infrastructure costs, meaning there are no additional fees for accessing the Lehi City Fiber network itself.
Business Service Customization
For businesses, the city indicated that internet service providers will provide specific quotes tailored to the unique needs of each company. This customized approach allows businesses to receive pricing and service packages that match their specific operational requirements.
The Installation Process
The installation process for the fiber network follows a structured four-step sequence. The first step involves outside coordination, where a representative from Strata Networks meets with the customer to discuss the placement of the fiber. Following this, the second step involves outside work, where fiber is brought from the curb to the exterior of the home. The city noted that this work may be performed by Strata Networks or a different subcontractor, and residents do not need to be present, as the teams are instructed to return the yard to its previous condition.
Installation Requirements and Support
The final stages of installation require a scheduled appointment. During the third step, a representative from Spectra or another subcontractor completes the home installation. The city advised that because the Optical Network Terminal (ONT) requires electricity, an electrical outlet must be available at the installation location. Customers may also need to update their existing equipment to ensure the best experience on the network. Once the connection is complete, the city stated that any technical issues following the installation should be directed to the customer's chosen internet service provider.
Project Status and Resources
As construction of the network reaches its final stages, the city indicated that monthly progress reports are being phased out. The city maintains a repository of historical reports, fiber design standards, a broadband glossary, and feasibility studies for public review. Residents interested in joining the network can sign up through any of the participating providers, including CentraCom, Beehive, Intellipop, Sumo, or XMission.
