New Hampshire Optical Systems won contract for statewide high speed broadband network

Network New Hampshire Now (NNHN) awarded New Hampshire Optical Systems a $34 million contract to install a state-wide 500-mile high speed broadband fiber-based network to provide access to “under-served citizens, schools and businesses.”

New Hampshire Optical Systems (NHOS) is headquartered in Nashua, New Hampshire.  Network New Hampshire Now (NNHN) is led by the NH state university system.

Construction of this middle-mile fiber-based network is expected to provide high-tech as well as construction jobs to the state.

Once completed, the network is also projected to boost the economy of the areas that had no broadband services by providing businesses and individuals with the additional affordable tools and services.

This middle mile network is the largest piece of a three-phase plan to provide all ten state counties with an interconnected high-speed broadband network.

A Federal grant totaling $44.5 million was provided by NTIA (the National Telecommunications and Information Administration) for a comprehensive broadband network project.  $21.4 million in additional “matching” private and state funds will complete the projected $65.9 million network.

The fund will also provide an improved wireless public safety network and infrastructure for a public television network.

Scott Valcourt, who heads up the State of New Hampshire oversight for the project said “NHOS met or exceeded all of the NTIA requirements soundly, while also submitting the lowest cost bid”