The trial will initially be implemented in 12 sites across five boroughs, and it allows Verizon to use “micro-trenching”, which opens space for cables on the ground, the city said yesterday in a statement. If successful, there could be further planned deployments across the city.
The project is expected to help Verizon sell higher internet speeds and television services in more parts of New York, and compete with Time Warner Cable and RCN Corp.
Verizon is reportedly using the project to ensure its customers do not switch to cable providers.
Verizon has been offering its FiOS fibre optic service in parts of New York since 2008, but the network does not span to every neighourhood yet. It is thought the service will also be used as a way to ensure better disaster recovery methods, with New York severely hit by Hurricane Sandy last year.
Through Micro-trenching, four other carriers would be able to utilise the space, and the pilot program is also open to other communications companies, with additional scope for increased competition.
