Google Fiber is still available, but your options are quickly narrowing. This service is not a national utility that orders from a catalog. This is a physical infrastructure project that requires digging holes, installing cables, and contracting with local governments.
By the end of summer 2014, the Internet giant had launched its high-speed fiber network in only three locations. Kansas City, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri were the first to launch the service again in November 2012, with Provo, Utah, later joining the club. Next up is Austin, Texas, launching soon.
The problem is that the registration period is limited. Google isn’t going to build everywhere right away. They use their own models to decide where to invest millions of dollars. In Kansas City, the company focuses on who signs up. The community with the most subscribers is built first. Google will only start construction if a certain percentage of the area’s residents agree to provide the service. This is demand-driven development. If your wallet isn’t voting for blocks fast enough, you might be waiting.
Future expansion and city options
Google is looking beyond the Midwest and Southwest. The company is currently exploring 34 cities across several metropolitan areas for future expansion. These include:
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Portland, Oregon
- San Jose, California
- Phoenix, Arizona
- San Antonio, Texas
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Salt Lake City, Utah
-Charlotte, North Carolina - Raleigh – Durham, North Carolina
Progress in these areas is still in its infancy. Google is working with local authorities to resolve logistical issues. Infrastructure, residential density and topography must be assessed. Fiber deployment is more than just burying cables underground. Topography and existing housing stock are important.
The city authorities were asked to provide the existing infrastructure and detailed maps. Google also wants to speed up the building permit process. Building a network of this size requires thousands of licenses. The company is seeking help to speed up the bureaucratic process.
When will Google Fiber announce new cities?
Google is expected to announce which cities will actually get the service by the end of 2014, but this statement is cautious. Probably all of them. Or maybe not. The final decision depends on the results of the ongoing investigation.
Even if Google doesn’t build a factory in a particular city, they won’t leave empty-handed. The company plans to share the findings with the local government. Whether or not Google is installing the cable, this information could be useful for cities embarking on similar projects in the future. They see this as a learning experience in urban infrastructure development.
This release is strictly demand driven. Build the neighborhood with the highest signup rate first.
This approach changes the way users think about Internet access. It’s not just about ease of use. It’s about community mobilization. If you want gigabit speeds, you have to prove that your neighbors want it. You must register on time. You have to hope your neighbors do the same.
Austin windows are opening soon. The Kansas City market opened. The rest of the country is watching and waiting. Google plans to let you know which cities are selected by the end of the year. Until then,
