Comcast Business is making a significant investment in its hometown as it is putting more than $30 million into a major expansion of its fiber-based network in Philadelphia, according to a statement released on Wednesday. The operator says it will reach more than 3,000 businesses directly and will make the network “more accessible and affordable than ever before.” The fiber Ethernet network expansion is capable of delivering up to 100 Gbps of network capacity and aims at not only large enterprises, but small and medium-sized companies as well.
“This is one of Comcast Business’ most significant and innovative infrastructure buildouts to date, and we’re proud to be making this investment here in our hometown,” David Dombroski, regional VP for Comcast Business, says. “As demand in Philadelphia for our high-performance Ethernet offerings continues to soar, Comcast Business recognizes the need to respond quickly to new businesses to provide scalable solutions that can meet demand as they grow.”
The concentrated expansion will reportedly deploy more than 50 miles of new fiber and encompass the city’s two largest business districts (Center City and University City). And as is often the case when fiber goes in, politicians and business leaders tend to line up to cheer the technology efforts that might give their city an advantage in attracting new businesses.
“This significant investment in our city’s infrastructure is critical to provide our businesses with the access and options they need to compete and grow,” Rob Wonderling, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, comments. “This competitive advantage will also help us continue to attract innovative companies to our city.”
Philly is known for its educational facilities and medical industries, and also has a prevalence of law firms and financial companies. On the startup front, the city has boasted about the revitalization of its tech and retail districts as well.
“Our city has always been on the cutting-edge of innovation and technology, and having access to the latest network services like those that Comcast Business is providing is absolutely essential to keeping us there,” Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney says. “We thank Comcast for its continued commitment to the city.”
Comcast showed off its business service provider chops under the Big Top that was the Democratic National Convention in Philly in July. The operator put in more than 25 miles of network plant in the Wells Fargo Center and surrounding area specifically for the event to deliver a redundant 100 Gbps connection that served DNC staff, delegates, and media outlets. More on that is available here.
