Cooperation needed for fiber optic network

It's time for Nebraska's telephone companies to take the lead in establishing a statewide fiber optic network. That was the message which came through loud and clear Thursday when Ralph Armendariz addressed a group of business, education, health care and telecommunications leaders brought together by Pinpoint Communications.

During an hour-long presentation at the Cross Creek Golf Links in Cambridge, the network consultant told the state and regional representatives that the goal is within reach, but it will require strong leadership and widespread cooperation to make the project a reality.

Armendariz, who helped develop regional networks in South Dakota and New York, said Nebraska has an advantage as it tries to complete the connection of the state's fiber optic network. "You're already a fiber rich state ... the richest I have seen," he said.

To complete the connection in Nebraska, Armendariz said all that's left is building 200 miles of fiber optic lines. Compared to New York, which had to build 1,600 miles of line to complete the Empire State Network, Nebraska's project should be a breeze.

And it would be a simple matter except that so many diverse needs must be addressed. One of the biggest issues is money and how it will be distributed to the network partners. "It's mostly a matter of how the companies will be compensated for the services they provide," said Jerry Vap of McCook, the chairman of the Nebraska Public Service Commission.

Even though there are obstacles to overcome, Vap believes a statewide regional fiber optic network would be of great value to Nebraskans ... especially from an economic development standpoint.

So what's needed to get Nebraska connected? To begin, leaders in the industry must get together to establish a clear vision. Then they must call together communications companies from throughout the state to decide upon the network's corporate structure, network management, provision of services and fund distribution.

Difficult to do? Certainly. But the long range benefit to Nebraska -- especially rural areas -- makes it a task worth undertaking as rapidly and fairly as possible.