MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – Two major players in the movement to expand internet access in Vermont are planning a merger. CV Fiber and NEK Broadband want to team up to build 2400 miles of broadband access to 71 cities and towns. The companies use the same network operator, retail services provider, construction manager, and design team. CV Fiber’s executive director says the merger will save money and expedite the implementation process.
“The goal is to provide this critical infrastructure to folks who previously haven’t had an opportunity to have this critical infrastructure, and it’s expensive to build at the rural locations so by merging together we can be more efficient.” said executive director of CV Fiber, Jenille Smith.
The next step is for the governor’s board to vote on the merger in July — that’s followed by a public hearing. A final vote in August would finalize the merger.