Fiber Construction Process at Cleveland Utilities
CU Fiber Construction Process
At Cleveland Utilities (CU), one of the most critical steps in achieving our 100% fiber network is our fiber construction process.
How CU is Installing Fiber Lines
There are two primary methods for installing fiber-optic cables: underground or aerial. Generally, CU’s fiber optic cables will follow the same path as the electric lines. Thus, if the electric lines are underground, the fiber lines will also be underground. If the electric lines are overhead, the fiber lines will be overhead as well.
Why True Fiber is Better
Unlike hybrid networks that combine fiber with outdated copper or coaxial lines, a true fiber-optic network delivers unmatched performances. Here’s why:
- Symmetrical Speeds – Enjoy equal upload and download speeds, ideal for streaming, gaming, and remote work.
- Higher Bandwidth – Fiber can handle significantly more data, ensuring smooth performance even with multiple devices connected.
- Faster Load Times – Experience minimal lag, perfect for streaming, video conferencing, and online gaming.
- Less Interference – Unlike copper, 100% fiber is resistant to electromagnetic interference, ensuring a stable and uninterrupted connection.
Step-by-Step of CU’s Process
- Planning - Before digging begins, extensive planning takes place to map out the most efficient routes for fiber installation. Our team works diligently to ensure compliance with state and local regulations.
- Locating and Marking Utilities - To help prevent damage to existing infrastructure, CU makes a One-Call request through Tennessee 811 for all underground utility lines such as water, gas, and electricity to be marked. This step is completed before any excavation begins to ensure our fiber installation does not interfere with essential services.
- Trenching and Boring-Depending on the environment, we use one of two
methods.
- Traditional Trenching – A narrow trench is dug to lay fiber conduit, then carefully refilled.
- Directional Boring – Used in sensitive areas, this technique allows fiber to be installed with minimal surface disruption.
4. Installing Conduit and Fiber - Once the path is ready, high-quality fiber optic
cables are installed inside protective conduits to ensure durability and
resistance to environmental factors. This step is essential for the future of our network and will be a key factor in keeping it strong for decades to come.
5. Splicing and Testing- After fiber is in place, our technicians carefully splice the
fiber strands. Rigorous testing is then conducted to secure seamless
connectivity. This ensures that every home and business will receive optimal
speed and reliability.
6. Restoration- We take pride in leaving areas as we found them—or better. After
installation, we restore roads, sidewalks, and landscapes to their original
condition, ensuring minimal disruption to the community.
Minimizing Disruptions During Installation
Cleveland Utilities understands that infrastructure upgrades can be inconvenient, which is why we take every precaution to minimize disruptions while installing underground fiber lines. Our crews work diligently to ensure a smooth process with as little impact as possible.
Advanced trenchless technologies like directional boring are used to reduce road closures and surface damage. We strive to complete each phase efficiently, while also maintaining the highest safety and quality standards. Our goal is to enhance connectivity without compromising the daily lives of our customers, making the transition to a 100% fiber network as seamless as possible.
What This Means for Cleveland Utilities Customers
Cleveland Utilities is building a fiber network that will support our community for generations. This initiative not only enhances internet speed and reliability but also strengthens our electric grid infrastructure. Our fiber network will improve utility management and assist with faster electric restoration times during power outages.
CU’s fiber network is paving the way for a more connected Cleveland. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to expand.
For more information on our fiber services, visit our website or contact us at 423-472-4521 today!
