Episode Details

Summit County is moving full steam ahead with its ambitious "Summit Connects" , 130 mile fiber ring, which will connect law enforcement, public agencies, smart traffic cameras, and even roadway infrastructure, through an ultra high speed broadband internet connection. However, work is running behind schedule by about six to eight weeks because of the long and snowy winter, as well as unexpected delays related to utility line inspections. Overall, though, as you'll hear from Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro's Chief of Staff, Brian Nelsen; the work is going as planned, though its scope has changed some from the original vision, which had it not only connecting public infrastructure, but also extending out to private homes and businesses through a public-private partnership with internet service providers. But, at $50 million dollars plus; it is still a gigantic undertaking, which county officials are hoping will be of real service and value to area residents for decades to come.  Find out why. Listen now.