SE Valley Times

The City of Tempe has initiated steps to provide low-cost, high-speed internet access to the entire community. This development was discussed at the June 27 Tempe City Council meeting.

Councilmember Randy Keating, who has been involved in this initiative since 2016, stated, “This is a giant leap for the city. Tempe is known as an innovation center in Arizona and I couldn’t be more proud of this effort and outcome.”

Councilmember Berdetta Hodge emphasized the importance of high-speed internet for educational opportunities. “High-speed internet access everywhere in our city ensures equal access to opportunities for everyone,” she said. “As a Governing Board member for Tempe Union High School District, I have seen the impact that access to high-speed internet makes for our students. I’m proud that the City of Tempe is doing this.”

Currently, some areas of Tempe lack high-speed internet service. To address this issue, the Tempe City Council approved a new fiber license and right-of-way use agreement. This will allow internet service providers (ISPs) to access city rights-of-way for constructing and maintaining fiber optic networks.

Will Novak, Government and Community Affairs Manager for Google Fiber, addressed the council stating, “While we are still working out details, we are excited that we could be the first new ISP and fiber entrant into the City of Tempe.”

ISPs can now choose between paying an annual fee based on their use of right-of-way space or providing in-kind materials or services to the city. Applications for licenses will be managed by the City's Public Works Department with licenses issued by the City Engineer.

This licensing arrangement aims to minimize disruptions caused by construction projects within city rights-of-way. The city will coordinate paving and road improvements schedules to achieve cost savings and reduce neighborhood disturbances.

For further information on this project, residents can visit tempe.gov/TempeFiber or contact Kris Baxter-Ging at 480-250-5198.