The Miami Township Board of Trustees passed a resolution Tuesday evening to join the GATEway Public Fiber Network that will provide faster, more efficient internet connectivity speeds and better data storage at a lower cost. By entering a contract with the Miami Valley Educational Computer Association (MVECA) to join the 44-mile fiber optics network, the township can offer better services to the community.
“We will be able to better store data and increase our internet capabilities. Currently, our data storage needs are immense. Our public works building is hindered right now by the lack of fast internet speed and storage capabilities. Our police department needs more storage space for cruiser cam videos, future body cam videos and better connectivity when the Kettering Police Department begins handling our dispatching services next year,” Ronald L. Hess, township administrator, said.
CARES Act funds will primarily be used to provide the fiber-based internet services to Miami Township. The township’s responsibility is about 15% of the overall cost over five years.
“The goal for us is to improve our workflow by utilizing better technology that allows for faster and less expensive internet service than what’s available commercially,” John Morris, township trustee president, said. “It can also provide us with economic development opportunities to potentially extend this technology to our businesses and residents at lower costs.”
The GATEway Fiber Network is a $3-million collaborative effort between the Miami Valley Cable Council (MVCC), Miami Valley Educational Computer Association (MVECA) and the Independents Fiber Network. Seven local municipalities are currently connected to the network including Centerville, Kettering, Miamisburg, Moraine, Oakwood, Springboro and West Carrollton.
MVECA is managing the project for the township. It says once all the materials are acquired, construction to connect Miami Township buildings to the fiber optic ring will take about six months.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 2, 2021
Contact: Ronald L. Hess, Township Administrator || (937) 433-9969