SiFi Networks to build USA’s largest privately funded open access FiberCity

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International fibre optic network developer SiFi Networks (SiFi) has announced that it will deliver what claims to be the USA’s largest privately funded open access FiberCity in Fullerton, California. 
 
The company says Fullerton will become the biggest network of its kind in America and will be funded by the Smart City Infrastructure Fund, a global investment fund managed by Whitehelm Capital and backed by APG, a pension delivery organisation in the Netherlands.
 
SiFi aims to deliver more networks throughout the USA in the same manner. Fullerton will be the first FiberCity with several cities already in line to be next.
 
“We are excited to deliver our first FiberCity in the USA, an investment that sets the standard for fibre optic infrastructure as a core utility. We believe that our business model can transform the telecoms market in the USA. Privately funded, open access networks will not only benefit residents and businesses, but also provide citywide platforms for Smart City applications including 5G and more,” says Ben Bawtree-Jobson, CEO of SiFi Networks.
 
The network promises to deliver a significant upgrade to internet speeds and accommodate the growing demand for data from next generation devices in households and businesses. The network developer says it will also facilitate new smart city initiatives in key government services such as traffic control, street lighting and emergency services. In addition to this, the company says the network will provide a platform for the future expansion of 4G and 5G cellular networks into the area.
 
“We are delighted to welcome SiFi Networks and its ISP partners Ting and GigabitNow to the city,” adds Fullerton City Manager, Ken Domer.  “Having a true fibre optic network passing every part of the city is an amazing opportunity for smart city applications, bringing competition to the city’s communication needs, and creating enhanced opportunities for economic development.” 
 
SiFi funds, builds and operates the network whilst partnering with internet service providers who bring their marketing and customer service expertise to deliver retail services (internet, TV and voice) to residents and businesses throughout the entire city without demographic segmentation. The internet service providers in Fullerton will be GigabitNow and Ting, which SiFi recognise as exceptional providers with excellent customer service levels and competitive pricing.
 
Elliot Noss, Ting CEO comments, “Fullerton will be great for our business, and Ting will support a thriving economy and quality of life there. We are pleased to embark on a California footprint, and to see alternative business models emerging in the ongoing fiberisation of America.”