Competition for High-Speed Fiber Internet Expands in Billings: What You Need to Know

High-Speed Fiber Internet: What’s Happening in Billings?

The race is on for high-speed fiber internet access in Billings! Two competitive players, Ziply Fiber and TDS Fiber, are ramping up their efforts to provide faster and more reliable service to this vibrant Montana city. With both companies having made promises years ago to expand their network, they are now reiterating their commitments amid some construction delays. As of now, Ziply Fiber has completed about 30% of its projects, while TDS Fiber stands at roughly 50% completion.

The Challenges of Fiber Expansion

Building fiber-optic networks isn’t just about laying cables; it’s like navigating a maze. Issues like obtaining the proper permits from local authorities, gaining access to residential areas, and dealing with underground utilities add complexity to the process. Joshua Ferguson, the Field Service Manager at TDS Fiber, points out that these hurdles create a more prolonged development timeline, particularly in neighborhoods with specific homeowners’ associations that must approve access for construction teams. For many residents, this leaves them waiting and wondering—when will my area be connected?

Why Fiber-Optic Internet Matters

For businesses in Billings, high-speed fiber-optic internet is not just a luxury, but a necessity. Entrepreneurs like Shawn Storm, who owns 4S Consulting, express the need for faster internet speeds, as their businesses rely heavily on data transfer. Storm notes that with improved speeds he could effectively manage over 40 clients, compared to just six currently. He also highlights how crucial increased fiber-optic access is for industries relying on large file transfers, such as healthcare imaging, where quick uploads can make or break timely patient care.

Future Outlook: Competition Breeds Quality

The presence of multiple companies competing for market share can only be a good thing for Billings residents. As Ryan Luckin, VP of Marketing at Ziply Fiber mentions, the ultimate goal is to connect between 18,000 and 20,000 addresses by 2026. However, as progress drags for both companies, Storm raises a key question: "Why isn't there more competition?" Increased investment and faster service rollouts can lead to better options for consumers, pushing these companies to prioritize their construction efforts.

What Lies Ahead for Billings?

As both Ziply and TDS work toward their fiber rollout goals, the city's landscape will continue to evolve. Ziply plans to extend its network throughout Billings, even reaching as far as the airport, while TDS has ambitious plans to enhance service in underserved areas. As residents await completion, they are left clinging to hopes that both companies will overcome obstacles and usher Billings into a new era of connectivity.

In summary, the expansion of high-speed fiber internet in Billings is poised to reshape the way residents and businesses operate. With the promise of competition, the future looks bright for this vital dual development, and the entire community stands to benefit.