Google Fiber construction begins in southeast Round Rock

Published on September 14, 2023 under RRnews

Round Rock officials signaled the start of Google Fiber construction on Wednesday, Sept. 13, with a groundbreaking in southeast Round Rock.

The location of the ceremony, held near Roundville Lane, marked the geographical starting point of the company’s efforts to expand its service into the city. Service will become available as portions of the network are completed throughout town. The first Round Rock customers will be able to begin using Google Fiber in their homes and businesses starting in early 2024.

Round Rock City Council voted to allow the high-speed internet service to install and operate a fiber optic network in the public right-of-way in October 2022.

Round Rock joins 18 metro areas in the country in receiving Google Fiber’s high-speed, high-bandwidth internet service, which offers one and two gigabit service to customers without data caps, equipment fees or annual contracts.

“Access to reliable, high speed, open, fairly-priced Internet is essential for communities,” said John-Michael Cortez, Government and Community Affairs Manager for Google Fiber,” and having real choices for that Internet service is essential to residents and small businesses.”

The company’s goal is to reach and access as many households as possible; Round Rock residents can sign up for availability updates at fiber.google.com.

“What is happening today further positions Round Rock at the forefront of development and technology,” Round Rock Mayor Craig Morgan said. “Having multiple options for internet service creates healthy competition and empowers innovation for our residents and businesses right here in Round Rock.”

Construction will mostly consist of a technique called micro trenching, which requires a small cut into the asphalt along the curb in neighborhood streets. Round Rock residents can expect to see construction crews in the roadways and adjacent softscapes/yards that are part of the city’s right of way easement. Crews will notify residents and businesses ahead of construction staging by way of door hangers, street signage, cones and other safety and informational efforts.

Learn more about the agreement and view FAQs at roundrocktexas.gov/googlefiber.