Google Fiber faces 'issues' as it seeks public rights of way

Google set politicians and netizens abuzz in February when it suggested it might bring that fiber to the Portland area, perhaps as soon as 2015.

But building a faster network could invite years of disruption as Google installs networking equipment around the city and buries fiber along suburban streets. The service could also necessitate new rules about what’s allowed in the public right of way -- and open the door to other companies installing their own gear on public property.

“There’s issues,” said Portland city commissioner Steve Novick, who runs the transportation bureau, which oversees rights of way. “But we’re very hopeful we can work out the issues.”