Google will be testing their ultra high-speed broadband network in several trial locations across the United States. The network intendeds to deliver speeds of more than 100 times faster than Americans currently have access to, 1 gigabit per second. Thru March 26th, they are accepting requests from interested municipalities to provide them with information about their communities, which will be used in the decision making process and to contribute towards the building process of their network.
According to an article published by The State, Columbia, South Carolina has shown interest in participating in this project and may have a chance at the opportunity. Google has purchased approximately 500 acres in Blythewood, South Carolina along I-77 for the proposed data center. Columbia faces a lot of competition; more than 100 cities have launched Facebook pages to market their support for the project.
Columbia Fiber Advocates are looking for ways to create buzz and get people asking about Google Fiber. They are also asking for popular Columbia websites to post links to the nomination page. Google is receiving nominations from people in the community and input from the local Government. According to Columbia City Manager, Steve Gantt, the city's grant writers have already started working on a proposal for Google Fiber. Thus far, Google has not said how many communities will be chosen; however, the expectation is to serve up to 500,000 people.
If successful, the project will help make Internet access better and faster for everyone. Specific areas of focus will include (1) development and Improvement of next generation apps and services; (2) development of new deployment techniques; (3) and provide an open access network that will give users the freedom to choose from multiple service providers.
The purpose of the project is to test, learn, and make a meaningful contribution to technology and better internet services for everyone.
To nominate your Community, go to: http://www.google.com/appserve/fiberrfi/public/options
Read More about the Google Fiber Project: http://www.google.com/appserve/fiberrfi/public/overview
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