MetroNet and the city of Fayetteville are bringing the service to the region, making it MetroNet's first expansion in North Carolina, officials said.
The Indiana-based company will spend more than $70 million on the project, which will serve Fayetteville, the towns of Hope Mills, Linden, Wade, Stedman, Godwin, Eastover, Falcon, Spring Lake, Vander, much of unincorporated Cumberland County and portions of Hoke County to include Raeford and Rockfish, officials said.
MetroNet President John Cinelli said projects of similar size usually take about two years.
In new MetroNet markets, residents will receive communication by mail about construction activity in their neighborhood 30 days prior to starting; and the company provides additional messaging, such as yard signs, to let residents know when the temporary construction process will start in their neighborhood, officials said.
MetroNet offers businesses and residents state-of-the-art, fiber optic networks connected directly to their homes and businesses.
Officials said the company is known "for its reliable, high-speed Internet-friendly service, and fair pricing with no long-term contracts."
"This tremendous investment brings unprecedented capabilities to existing businesses and gives Fayetteville the infrastructure and competitive edge needed to attract new 9*+business and grow jobs," Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin said.
Beyond television and telephone services to residents and businesses, the company's ultrafast Internet will also support teleworking, distance learning and virtual medicine, Colvin said, thanking the Fayetteville Public Works Commission for their collaboration to accommodate the project.
Officials said the need for increase broadband became more apparent during the coronavirus pandemic, which has led to increased virtual learning and remote work.
Cumberland County Board of Commissioners Chairman Charles Evans welcomed MetroNet to the community.
"This hallmark investment speaks to the bright future ahead for our citizens as we close the digital divide through increased access."
Cinelli thanked Colvin, the city of Fayetteville, PWC, the economic development corporate state officials and Sen. Kirk deViere and Rep. John Szoka for their support.
"It's clear that this community is rich in diversity and opportunity, and we're excited to be a part of it as we move forward together," Cinelli said.
Officials said the company will have a MetroNet storefront located in Fayetteville, where customers can speak with customer service representatives and sign up for services.
MetroNet also plans to hire local market management positions, sales and customer service professionals, and service technicians to support the Fayetteville area.
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