Internet service provider Metronet is planning to introduce a new fiber internet network, the Metronet Norfolk gigabit network, throughout Norfolk, providing residents and businesses with high-speed internet. The announcement was made by Mayor Kenny Alexander during a recent State of the City address, with construction expected to start by the end of the year. The network will offer an alternative to the city’s current sole provider, Cox Cable, and is expected to reach every corner of Norfolk within a few years. This development, which will not require any city funding or incentives, is particularly timely given the increased demand for improved internet due to the recent shift to remote working caused by the pandemic.

Introduction

From The Virginian-Pilot By

Metronet Bringing High-Speed Internet to Norfolk

Internet service provider Metronet plans to lay down a new fiber internet network throughout the city, providing residents and businesses with the highest commercially available internet speeds — and a direct competitor for Cox in a city that has long complained about having one option.

Announcement by Mayor Kenny Alexander

The announcement was made by Mayor Kenny Alexander during Thursday’s State of the City address.

Construction and Expansion Plans

Metronet has installed similar fiber optic systems in cities all over the Midwest and South, boasting so-called “gigabit” speeds, the fastest internet available. Construction in Norfolk is expected to start by the end of this year, Alexander said.

Benefits for Norfolk Residents and Businesses

Alexander also said the company would not be looking to the city for any funding or incentives.

Buildout of the new network likely will take a few years. Economic Development Director Jared Chalk said by the time all is said and done, the network will reach every corner of Norfolk.

Challenges with Current Internet Options

Norfolk residents have long had just one option for the internet: Cox Cable. The complaints about a lack of internet competition have been so regular and consistent over the past several years, the city put up an FAQ about it and the Pilot has written its own explainer on the issue.

Impact of Improved Internet Access

Chalk said the recent shift to working from home as a result of coronavirus has even more clamoring for improved internet.

“We in Norfolk, citizens, and businesses, for years and accelerated with the pandemic, have wanted options. This creates competition,” Chalk said.

Competition in the Market

But now, true competition for high-speed, hard-wired internet will come to the city.

Metronet, based in Evansville, Indiana, is the eighth largest fiber internet company in the nation. It began by building out networks in several Midwest cities, before expanding south. According to its website, it’s building networks in 60 localities.

Question & Answer

What is Metronet planning to introduce in Norfolk?

Metronet is planning to introduce a new fiber internet network, the Metronet Norfolk gigabit network, throughout Norfolk, providing residents and businesses with high-speed internet.

When is the construction of the new network expected to start?

Construction of the new network in Norfolk is expected to start by the end of this year.

Will the new network require any city funding or incentives?

No, the company behind the new network, Metronet, will not be looking to the city for any funding or incentives.

What is the expected reach of the new network in Norfolk?

The new network is expected to reach every corner of Norfolk within a few years, providing high-speed internet access to all residents and businesses.