Verizon says that it has expanded its Boston fiber to the premises (FTTP) deployments into parts of Jamaica Plain and Hyde Park. According to the service provider, its Fios Internet, Custom TV, Digital Voice services, and phone services are now available to residents of these neighborhoods. This follows the recent announcement that a video franchise has been approved by the Mayor of the City of Boston, Marty Walsh.
In July of 2016, Verizon announced its plans to deploy FTTP in Boston under a plan that would split the city into four groups, each with multiple zones (see "Verizon sets first Boston FTTP deployments").Verizon originally expected to begin fiber roll outs in 2018 for Group B, including Jamaica Plain and Hyde Park, and is ahead of schedule with deployment in these two neighborhoods.
In December of 2016, Verizon began its Fios rollout in the City of Boston by providing service in parts of Dorchester, Roslindale, West Roxbury, and Roxbury (see "Verizon launches Fios service in Boston"). Construction and expansion in these neighborhoods are ongoing.
The company has made a $300 million investment to build the fiber-optic network infrastructure over a six-year period throughout Boston, and says this is the next step toward reaching that goal (see "Verizon to bring FiOS FTTP network to Boston").
Verizon says that subscribers will have the option to pay $69.99 a month for two years for Fios Triple Play Bundles, including Fios Gigabit Connection internet that provides up to 940 Mbps downstream and up to 880 Mbps upstream, TV, and phone. Customers currently in a contract with cable or satellite providers can receive up to a $500 credit to offset any early termination fee, the service provider says. As the build out continues, residents are being asked to check Fios availability at a specific address, and sign up for email updates at www.verizon.com/BostonFios.
Meanwhile, the Verizon Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to non-profit Tech Goes Home at the Codman Square Neighborhood Development Corporation (NDC) Computer Learning Center and Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Tech Goes Home provides entrepreneurs in Boston's underserved neighborhoods with small business training. Assistance with English-language skills, the option to purchase a new tablet or laptop for $50, and digital tools to enhance management, marketing, and sales are included in the program.
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