How Dublin, Ohio is Becoming the Most Connected City in the U.S.

Doug McCollough, CIO for the City of Dublin

In an age where connectivity is vital for work, health, education, entertainment, and so much more, Dublin, Ohio, is blazing a trail with its Fiber to Every Home project. This initiative is not just about improving internet speeds; it's about transforming the community by making high-speed broadband a utility and amenity that is accessible to all. This bold initiative, combined with Dublink, the 100-gig Fiber Optic Network available to Dublin businesses, will make Dublin the most connected city in the U.S.

The Need for High-Speed Broadband

While the City of Dublin prides itself on leading the way in innovation and quality of life, this initiative really began with a grassroots effort. Dublin has been working on improving residential broadband access for a number of years, dating back to 2016, with a resident-driven effort. City employees became aware of residents’ concerns about high-speed internet access through a robust conversation on the Nextdoor social media platform.

Residents described dissatisfaction with the speed, cost, reliability and competition of available internet services in their neighborhoods. They raised questions about the city's ability to support an expansion of availability of this service. In response, the city organized events and held several meetings with residents to discuss the issues and potential solutions. Out of those discussions, a resident ‘workgroup’ was formed. The group led research efforts and provided an assessment and strategic direction for the city to consider.

In addition to the workgroup discussions, the city conducted various community surveys, which helped determine residents’ experiences with their internet service. The survey results expressed a strong desire for improved access to higher internet speeds, lower service costs and better customer service. In Dublin’s most recent Community Attitudes Survey, 58 percent of residents said investing in broadband should be a high priority. Fifteen percent said it should be the city’s highest priority. Dublin used this feedback to proactively address these vital connection needs.

The Path to Fiber

Armed with survey data and recommendations from the broadband workgroup, in 2019, Dublin City Council set the goal of being the most connected community in the U.S. In pursuit of this goal, the city issued a Request for Proposals (RFP), seeking a partner to provide competitive access to broadband internet services of up to 10 gigabits for 100 percent of Dublin residents, including every neighborhood, residence and apartment. The city received seven responses and, after a rigorous evaluation process, selected altafiber based on many factors, including its price, buildout plan, stability, experience and partnerships.

"The Fiber to Every Home project ensures that everyone in Dublin has access to high-speed internet, closing the digital divide"

altafiber is the leading supplier of fiber-based services in Greater Cincinnati and has invested more than $1.5 billion into expanding its fiber network across Southwest Ohio. The company is committed to creating digital equity so that all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in society, economy and democracy. altafiber will be investing roughly $35 million in Dublin’s fiber optic network. Additionally, the company will provide additional tech infrastructure, which could include a city innovation center or public Wi-Fi initiatives.

As indicated by the company’s name, altafiber delivers internet through fiber-optic cables, which are thinner than a human hair. Fiber offers faster upload and download speeds and is transmitted on a dedicated line, allowing for more consistent and reliable speeds than cable. Fiber is durable and resistant, making it less likely to go down during a power outage. It also uses less energy to transmit data than metal cables, which is attractive from a sustainability standpoint.

Benefits of Dublin's Fiber to Every Home Project

High-speed broadband is not just about faster downloads; it's about improving the overall quality of life. It enables telehealth services, connecting residents to medical professionals remotely. It facilitates online education, empowering students of all ages to access a world of knowledge from home. It also supports smart home technologies that make life more convenient and energy-efficient.

The Fiber to Every Home project ensures that everyone in Dublin has access to high-speed internet, closing the digital divide. It promotes digital equity by providing opportunities for underserved and low-income residents to access essential services, job opportunities and educational resources, thereby promoting social inclusion and economic mobility.

Dublin's investment in fiber aligns with the vision of a smart city, where technology is harnessed to improve operational efficiency, share information with the public and improve the quality of government services. It facilitates the implementation of digital devices, enhancing public safety, transportation and resource management.

Broadband is also a key driver of economic growth. The Dublink fiber optic network has long been a crucial incentive for business attraction and retention in Dublin. Now, by extending fiber to all premises, Dublin is providing an environment for entrepreneurs, startups and others who work from their homes to thrive. This fosters job creation and economic development. Working from home also reduces the need for commuting, resulting in fewer cars on the road, reduced emissions and a greener environment.

High-speed broadband has become a fundamental necessity in the world today. It plays a pivotal role in our daily lives, impacting almost every aspect of our personal and professional activities. Developments in technology and the proliferation of devices have contributed to a new definition of minimum standards for broadband. Dublin’s commitment to 10-Gig infrastructure demonstrates an awareness of both current and future broadband needs.

Dublin’s Fiber to Every Home project is more than a technological upgrade. It is a testament to the city's commitment to progress, equity and innovation. By making high-speed broadband accessible to all, Dublin ensures that its residents can thrive in the digital age while also attracting businesses and fostering economic growth.

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