FTTH Construction Phases
Building a world-class fiber-to-the-home network is a complex endeavor, dependent on multiple variables – the project size, a co-op’s unique geography, weather, the amount of underground and overhead electric infrastructure and more. The project unfolds on a rolling basis, over 6 general phases for each designated construction zone.
Phase 1
Design – 100% Completed
Mapping the fiber route along the existing power infrastructure, from substation to individual meter, allows for a faster, more efficient build.
Phase 2
Make Ready – 100% Completed
Make-ready crews evaluate and possibly change out poles to prepare our infrastructure to accommodate the fiber build.
Phase 3
Construction – 74% Completed
Fiber crews will begin the process of adding fiber-optic cable to pole lines and underground areas throughout the community.
Phase 4
Splicing – 65% Completed
The fiber cables and taps are spliced. Splice points are protected in enclosures and secured to power poles (aerial build) or in pedestals (underground build).
Phase 5
Service Drop – 77% Completed
Crews install drop fiber from the nearest tap enclosure to a network interface device (NID) located on the home or business.
Phase 6
Installation – 54% Completed
Fiber is installed from the NID to an ONT (optical network terminal) inside the home or office, where it is connected to a Wi-Fi router, tested, and determined ready to connect to broadband.
Bringing High-Speed Fiber Internet to Your Home
Valley Electric Association and Valley Communications Association are thrilled to announce an exciting new chapter in connectivity for our communities!
Our Mission, Evolving
Just as we brought electricity to rural areas in the 1960s, we now deliver reliable, affordable high-speed internet directly to your homes. It’s all part of our commitment to enhancing your quality of life.
Expanding Since 2016
Since we began, we’ve expanded broadband access with both wireless and fiber-optic technology. Now, we’re taking the next big step forward.
Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH)
We’re moving to a full FTTH network for all members, ensuring the highest quality internet experience available.
Why Fiber?
Unmatched Reliability
Fiber is considered the gold standard of broadband for a reason.
Future-Ready
It’s “future-proof,” designed to support your internet needs for years to come.
We’re excited to bring this transformational technology to your doorstep!
What This Means for You
We are building this fiber network over our existing electric infrastructure, allowing us to bring fast, affordable internet directly to your home or business. For many of you who have struggled with slow internet, this change is a game-changer, offering some of the fastest, most reliable internet in the country.
When Will You Get Fiber?
We know you’re excited for high-speed fiber service! Here’s what you need to know about our timeline and progress:
Project Timeline
Our goal has been updated to complete the fiber network build-out within 4 years.
- Construction began in early 2023.
- Fiber connections started mid-2023, with new areas continuing to come online as construction progresses.
- As with any large infrastructure project, our timeline has been influenced by several real-world factors, including permitting requirements, construction scheduling, and the need to connect individually with members during the switching process.
Updated End Goal
Fiber service is now expected to be available to all members by 2026.
While this extends our original timeline, it allows us to complete the project the right way—safely, responsibly, and with the long-term reliability our members expect and deserve.
Why the Timeline Shifted
A few key factors have impacted the original schedule:
- Permitting and regulatory processes that take time and vary by area
- Construction delays, including licensing and contractor availability
- Member outreach and switching, which requires direct contact and coordination to ensure a smooth transition
Each of these steps is essential to delivering a high-quality fiber network built to serve our communities for decades.
Stay Informed
We’ll continue to share updates and notify you as soon as fiber becomes available in your area. Thank you for your understanding and for being part of this exciting upgrade to our network.
For more details, visit our project FAQs.
A Commitment to the Future
We understand that there have been past promises about fiber that may have left some members frustrated. While we can’t change what’s been done, we are 100% committed to getting it right this time. We are confident that this investment in an all-fiber network serves your needs now and well into the future.
