11/01/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/01/2024 15:15
Construction has begun in Belfast, as Fidium Fiber will connect more than 5,300 homes and businesses to Fidium's multi-gig speed, future-proof network
BELFAST, Maine - Nov. 1, 2024 - Fidium Fiber is expanding its all-fiber internet network in Belfast, bringing multi-gig speed service to more than 5,300 homes and businesses in the communities. Fiber infrastructure is now underway, with exact start dates varying by location.
Fiber broadband drives economic growth, in particular for rural communities, increasing business growth by 213% and leading to 44% higher GDP. For individuals, fiber access resulted in self-employment growth of 10% and increased per capita income by 18%. Fiber also increases real estate values, as single-family homes with fiber access have a 4.9% higher value than those without. Fidium's expansion of its all fiber, future-proof network brings these opportunities and all the benefits that come with access to a fiber broadband connection to Belfast.
"We are thrilled to be able to bring Fidium Fiber to the Belfast community, and we appreciate the community's patience while we build this new fiber infrastructure", said Sarah Davis, vice president of Market Development for Fidium Fiber. "We have seen how fiber has transformed communities, connecting residents and businesses to opportunities not previously accessible. Over the next several months, we will be working to expand our multi-gig speed all-fiber network and upgrade locations to access our future-proof fiber internet."
Today, more than 270,000 Maine homes and businesses have access to Fidium, including in Searsport, Rockport, Orland and Castine, with additional availability coming soon in Belfast and across the state. Residents and businesses may register to learn more and get updates about future service availability at FidiumFiber.com.
The work of installing new fiber optic lines along roads and in public utility areas requires some digging and climbing of utility poles. Crews will be working along the edge of private property within the public right-of-way and/or public utility easements. This work may require some temporary traffic detours, noise and dust. Paint markings and/or flags may be placed in areas where construction is active. Flags will be removed once work is complete in the area. Crews will work quickly, clean up after themselves and will aim to minimize any disruption.
More information on the fiber build progress will be shared with town and city officials, as well as residents. Mailers, door hangers and construction alerts will be distributed to keep the public informed, and Fidium representatives will be visiting neighborhoods to share more about what to expect during construction, and how to sign up to be the first notified as soon as service is ready to install.
To learn more about the fiber internet construction process and sign up for updates on our progress, visit FidiumFiber.com/Expanding. Residents with specific construction questions or concerns should contact 1.877.769.4771.
About Fidium Fiber 
Fidium Fiber is a customer-centered, consumer fiber broadband service offering symmetrical multi-gig speeds and exceptional service. Fidium is available in California, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Texas and Vermont with new locations available daily. Fidium is a brand fromConsolidated Communications Holdings, Inc. Consolidated is a leading broadband and business communications provider serving consumers, businesses, and wireless and wireline carriers across a 20-plus state service area. Learn more atFidiumFiber.com.