The City of Cabot and Connect2First Bridge Digital Divide in Arkansas with Help from DZS and Irby
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The initiative by DZS and Irby Utilities to establish a city-owned high-speed fiber network in Cabot, Arkansas, represents a significant development in the telecommunications infrastructure sector. This project is noteworthy for several reasons, including its funding model, scale and potential as a blueprint for other rural areas. The absence of federal or state subsidies, relying entirely on local funding for a $20 million investment, is a bold move that underscores the viability of local initiatives in bridging the digital divide.
The deployment of 10 gigabit per second symmetrical passive optical networking (XGS-PON) technology is an advanced choice, offering substantial bandwidth that can accommodate future growth in demand. This positions Cabot as a competitive location for businesses and may attract new residents who prioritize internet connectivity. Moreover, the project's recognition by the American Planning Association suggests a strategic approach to urban planning that integrates digital infrastructure, which could influence similar developments nationwide.
From an industry perspective, the partnership between a city, a cooperative and private companies like DZS and Irby Utilities could signal a trend towards more collaborative efforts in expanding high-speed internet access. The success of such a project could encourage investment in underserved areas, potentially opening new markets for telecommunication firms and related technology providers.
Exploring the business implications of the city-owned fiber internet and telephony network in Cabot, it's clear that this initiative could serve as a case study for the economic impact of telecommunications infrastructure investment. By offering 10 Gbps connectivity, Cabot is likely to see an uplift in its appeal to tech-savvy businesses and remote workers, which could translate into economic growth and an expanded tax base.
For DZS and Irby Utilities, their involvement in this project may enhance their reputations as enablers of cutting-edge broadband solutions, potentially leading to similar contracts and partnerships with other municipalities. This could have a positive effect on their market positioning and financial performance in the long term. The ability to showcase a successful implementation without federal or state subsidies could also strengthen their bargaining power in future negotiations with other local governments.
Furthermore, the network's ability to pass the entire community with over 220 miles of fiber suggests a comprehensive approach to connectivity that could set a new standard for municipal broadband projects. This level of coverage may result in high subscriber uptake rates, creating a stable revenue stream for the network and its operators.
The establishment of a city-owned fiber network in Cabot, Arkansas, is more than just a technological upgrade; it's a strategic economic development initiative. High-speed broadband is increasingly recognized as a critical factor for economic vitality, education, healthcare and overall quality of life.
The direct impact on local businesses and potential to attract new enterprises cannot be overstated. Access to reliable and fast internet can be a game-changer for rural economies, often leading to innovation, entrepreneurship and job creation. This project could serve as a catalyst for economic diversification in Cabot, reducing dependency on traditional industries and fostering a more resilient local economy.
In the long term, the success of this project could encourage other municipalities to explore self-funding models for infrastructure projects, shifting the paradigm of rural development. However, it's important to monitor the return on investment for Cabot, as the absence of subsidies means the financial risk is borne locally. The project's performance will be a critical indicator for other cities considering similar initiatives.
Initiative to enable multi-gigabit broadband connectivity across the state’s first city-owned fiber internet and telephony network; wins “Plan of the Year” from Arkansas Chapter of the American Planning Association
DALLAS, March 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DZS (Nasdaq: DZSI), a global leader of access, optical and AI-driven cloud software solutions, and its strategic partner Irby Utilities (Irby) today announced that they are working with Connect2First, a subsidiary of First Electric Cooperative, and the City of Cabot, Arkansas to build the first city-owned high speed fiber internet and telephony network in Arkansas. The City of Cabot and Connect2First are leveraging Irby’s broadband network planning and deployment expertise along with cutting-edge DZS Access and Subscriber Edge fiber access solutions to bring 10 gigabit per second symmetrical passive optical networking (XGS-PON) driven next-generation digital communications services to the over 26,000 residents and businesses of Cabot.
Hundreds of subscribers are already receiving world-class broadband connectivity from this multi-gigabit services capable network that will pass the entire community with over 220 miles of fiber. This groundbreaking
“This unique project is the first of its kind in the state of Arkansas where a municipality has built its own fiber network and partnered with a local ISP to provide high speed fiber optic internet services to its constituents,” said City of Cabot Mayor Ken Kincade. “The City of Cabot is thrilled to be able to leverage the proven expertise of Connect2First, who already had a presence in the city and was currently serving surrounding areas with a highly regarded and reliable service. Our goal is to bring a world-class experience to our citizens, businesses and anchor institutions, and so when Connect2First shared that both Irby and DZS had been key contributors to their success to date, it was an easy choice to bring them both into our project for consistency and peace-of-mind.”
“It is inspirational to see forward-thinking, can-do rural municipalities like the City of Cabot come up with innovative ways to bring to their residents and businesses extraordinary communications services and experiences,” said Candace Looper, Director of Sales and Marketing, Connect2First. “We take a great deal of pride in helping the City of Cabot bridge the digital divide and improve the quality of life for their constituents.”
“The City of Cabot and Connect2First are raising the bar when it comes to deploying the latest fiber-based technology in rural areas,” said Patrick Reams, VP of Technology & Communications, Irby. “We have worked closely with DZS on this and nearly a dozen other strategic projects, passing nearly half a million homes around the U.S. with high-quality broadband services. Our team is excited about this initiative between a municipality and its regional public utility. We look forward to others following the outstanding model that the City of Cabot and Connect2First have implemented leveraging our expertise and DZS technology.”
“The City of Cabot and Connect2First are using DZS technology to bring among the fastest multi-gigabit internet speeds possible to their customers via their cutting-edge network,” said Gunter Reiss, DZS Chief Customer Officer AEMEA. “Irby and DZS have developed a stellar track record of successful broadband deployments among electric cooperatives and municipalities across the U.S. where we bring best-in-class broadband and economic opportunity to rural and remote communities. We are honored to be part of this award-winning initiative and look forward to its continued success.”
DZS and Irby are working closely with Connect2First and the City of Cabot to strategically plan and rapidly deploy cutting-edge Access and Subscriber Edge solutions as part of the new fiber network. This includes:
- DZS Velocity Broadband Access Edge systems. This project uses DZS Velocity V14, V6, and V2 multi-terabit and environmentally hardened Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP) optical line terminals (OLTs). The Velocity portfolio features line cards that support multi-gigabit services leveraging gigabit passive optical networking (GPON), XGS-PON and 10-gigabit point-to-point Ethernet technologies.
- DZS Helix Subscriber Edge solutions. This project uses DZS Helix 5222 XGS-PON ONTs and 1664 WiFi 6 EasyMesh access points to provide wired connectivity within the home and business as well as whole-home WiFi coverage.
DZS and Irby prepare electric cooperatives, municipalities and other broadband innovators for the future of broadband. Their systems, which feature industry-leading capacity, future-ready performance and open architectures, aim to accommodate multi-vendor scenarios and emerging service demands seamlessly. DZS and Irby have also demonstrated an exceptional track record of supporting their mutual customers to leverage government programs like RDOF, the CARES Act, ReConnect loans and grants, and Capital Projects Funds to jumpstart their business plans and position their communities for a hyper-connected world.
To learn more about DZS, visit https://www.dzsi.com.
About The City of Cabot
With its convenient location in Central Arkansas, the City of Cabot is just 30 minutes away from the State’s Capital. This provides the community with access to all of the resources in a major metropolitan area while retaining the charm of a small town. Steeped in history, the City strategically balances the revitalization of our historic downtown with the innovation of technology for the future. A thriving business community, exceptional school district, vibrant quality of life and a progressive city leadership continues to make Cabot one of the fastest-growing areas in Arkansas.
About First Electric Cooperative Corporation
First Electric Cooperative Corporation is a not-for-profit electric distribution cooperative that was incorporated in 1937 as the first electric cooperative in Arkansas. First Electric energized its first power lines in April 1938 near Jacksonville, Arkansas, with three employees and 150 members. Today, First Electric serves more than 100,000 member accounts throughout parts of 18 counties in central and southeast Arkansas. It owns and maintains more than 10,100 miles of distribution power lines, over 201,000 power poles, over 106,000 meters and 46 substations. First Electric is the second-largest distribution cooperative in Arkansas and one of the 33 largest among over 900 electric cooperatives in the US.
About Irby Utilities
Irby Utilities is a leading fulfillment and solutions provider for utility and utility contracting marketplaces. Pairing its nearly 100 years of utility experience with the industry's top technologies and manufacturers, Irby is poised to provide innovative products and customized services to serve its nationwide client base best. Irby offers a complete portfolio to each of its core business segments - distribution, transmission, substation, generation, renewable energy, EPC, fiber/broadband communications, and gas. To find out more, visit www.irbyutilities.com.
About DZS
DZS Inc. (Nasdaq: DZSI) is a global leader of access, optical and AI-driven cloud software solutions.
DZS, the DZS logo, and all DZS product names are trademarks of DZS Inc. Other brand and product names are trademarks of their respective holders. Specifications, products, and/or product names are all subject to change.
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FAQ
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