Axcess – Ontario: Implementation and Performance of the Fiber Optic Ring

Abstract

Using a non-profit approach Ontario County has implemented a fiber optic network to benefit its telecommunications industry and to increase its global competitiveness. The goal of the project was to attract businesses and industry and to eventually meet the needs of individual citizens, allowing towns throughout the county to be connected through a high-speed broadband network that is financially self-sufficient. The purpose of this research will be to determine the actual performance of the fiber optic network compared to the initial plan. This research will also determine companies currently connected to the ring and the benefits they are finding from the connection. It will be determined if the goal of benefiting individual residents in the county has been met and how the project will continue to run and benefit them in the future. The current financial standings of the project will be assessed, determining if self-sufficiency has been met and the outlook of financing in the future.