Bloomington, Indiana Signs Letter of Intent with Meridiam for High-Speed Fiber Network

Mayor John Hamilton (D-IN) announced that the City of Bloomington and Meridiam have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for the firm to build and operate a fiber network to bring high-speed internet to Bloomington (IN) residences. By the end of 2021, the City plans to enter into an agreement with the infrastructure developer to construct an open-access fiber-optic network delivering gigabit-class broadband service throughout Bloomington, including the city’s low-income neighborhoods. Meridiam intends to begin construction in 2022. The LOI stipulates that Meridiam intends to build a broadband network covering virtually all and at least 85% of Bloomington residences, including the areas currently approved for annexation if they go forward. The LOI indicates the network will be an open-access model, meaning that any internet provider may lease the infrastructure after an initial restricted period. The LOI commits Meridiam and the City to achieve digital equity goals and the principle of net neutrality--that all internet communications are to be treated equally. After commencing in Bloomington, Meridiam is also planning similar investments in other municipalities in central Indiana. “We are proud to lead and anchor what has become a regional broadband initiative reaching well beyond Bloomington,” said Mayor Hamilton.