Verizon, New York City to Test Way to Spread Fiber Network

Verizon Communications and New York City agreed to test a method to more quickly install fiber-optic cables under sidewalks, potentially enabling the company to offer faster connections in more neighborhoods. The pilot program allows Verizon to use “micro-trenching” or “saw cutting,” in which narrow, shallow grooves are carved out of the ground, opening space for cables, the city said in a statement.

The trial will start with 12 sites across the five boroughs, after which the government and the company will assess whether it can be adopted citywide. The plan would help Verizon, the nation’s second-largest phone company, sell higher Internet speeds and television service in more parts of the city, competing with Time Warner Cable and RCN. Verizon is counting on those offerings to help keep its phone customers from switching to cable. While Verizon has been offering its fiber-optic service, called FiOS, in parts of New York City since 2008, it still hasn’t reached every neighborhood. The program could also help the carrier provide service to areas affected by Superstorm Sandy last year, the city said.