What began as a fiber optic network for a more efficient traffic light system in Greensboro could mean better Internet access for the Triad. Greensboro laid a fiber network for its traffic signals seven years ago. But much of that high-speed cable is going unused.
Now, Chief Information Officer Jane Nickles says Greensboro is working with Guilford county and local cities and universities to attract internet service providers to the Triad.
"Instead of going to the expense of putting that fiber in the ground and building out those networks, they could potentially leverage some fiber that's already there at no cost to the city. Potentially it could be a revenue source to the city, but it would save the ISPs money, potentially for the networks they are building."
Nickles says attracting an ISP could bring business and innovation, as well as increase Internet access for poor and rural areas.