As we reported in March, the community has been working since 2012 on a plan for a fiber network to improve connectivity for businesses and the almost 600 residents on the island. The infrastructure will belong to the Town of Isleboro; GWI will offer services via the network. The entire project estimate is $2.5 – $3 million to be funded with a municipal bond.
Many of the island’s residents now obtain Internet access via DSL from Fairpoint, which has been described as spotty and unreliable, for $20 – $70 per month. GWI already operates on the island, offering wireless service.
This is the first in a several step approval process:
Town officials plan to hold a second public vote in the fall on 20-year municipal bond for up to $3 million that would fund the network’s construction, [Selectman Arch Gillies] said.
Completion is scheduled for the end of 2016.
“We’re a community intent on keeping up with the world, and maybe getting ahead of the world,” [Gilles] said.
