Map could help Columbus ramp up broadband

Columbus (OH) lost in the much-hyped race to have Google install a hyper-fast broadband fiber system in town, but the city recently signed a contract that could help gain ultra-high-speed Internet service. Such an upgrade allows the city, schools, libraries and hospitals to offer better and faster access to services online and over wireless devices. It also improves the quality of such service for businesses and individual customers.

Under the five-year contract, Connected Nation Exchange will develop a map for the city that shows where Columbus owns properties that can be used to expand broadband networks. Those properties include buildings, rooftops, towers, utility poles, signs, water tanks and existing fiber-optic lines, said Connected Nation Exchange CEO Brian Mefford. The city already has installed 500 miles of fiber-optic lines, and the mapping will allow the city to more easily lease access to wireless companies. Such an arrangement also allows companies to provide ultra-high-speed service without making massive investment.