Help Reno Get Ultra-High Speed Internet

Google is looking to spread its omnipresence in the online world even further. The company is about to launch a trial of fiber optic connectivity and is looking for places to set up shop. The plan, called Google Fiber Optic for Communities, involves building and testing ultra-high speed broadband networks in a few trial locations. Ultra-high speed means Internet connections more that 100 times faster than most of us have ever experienced - 1 gigabit per second right to your home. That will make things possible like downloading a full-length movie in under five minutes and allow health care providers to consult with specialists around the world in real time. Possible applications for education could revolutionize the way we teach our kids.

Just about any type of government entity, community group, or individual can answer Google's request for information (RFI), telling them why their area would be a great place for the fiber optic trial. The City of Reno is collecting responses for its bid for the project and is asking us to help. If you would like Reno (or any other location in northern Nevada) to be considered for one of the test locations, here's what to do...

• Share your comments with the City of Reno so they can be included in the proposal to bring the project here.
• Submit your own reasons for nominating Reno directly to Google. Tell them why you think we have a great location for their project and what benefits it might bring to the community.
• Ask others to jump in. If you do Twitter, Facebook, or other social media, let others know what's going on.

The deadline for submitting information is March 26. To learn more, check out the project FAQ. It answers a lot of questions.

Sparks residents, this is for you as well. The City of Sparks website has a link to the Google site where you can tell them why Sparks should be chosen for the trial. If we get enough Reno / Sparks responses, we'll be on our way to ultra-high speed Internet for everyone.

Sources: Reno & Sparks press releases, Google Fiber Optic for Communities.

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