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1. What are AT&T and Sparklight doing?

AT&T and Sparklight are both installing private fiber optic broadband networks in Victoria. These networks will be able to deliver high-speed internet using fiber-to-the-home technology.

2. Is the City paying for the installation of these networks?

No. These are private investments by private internet providers.

3. How long will the installation take?

Fiber network installation is an ongoing process as fiber companies expand their reaches to include more potential customers. Both companies will work continuously throughout the next year to install their networks, and they will likely expand further sometime in the future.

During the installation, high-speed internet access will gradually become available to more homes as more neighborhoods are added to the networks.

4. Will high-speed internet be available at my house?

Internet providers make decisions about where to place their networks based on population density, internet adoption rates and other factors. You can contact Sparklight or AT&T directly to determine whether your neighborhood is included in their network plans.

Both AT&T and Sparklight offer those who are interested the chance to sign up to be notified if/when fiber is available where they live:

• AT&T: www.att.com/NotifyMe
• Sparklight: www.sparklight.com/fiber

During the initial phase of installation, both providers are planning to concentrate their efforts on the north side of Victoria for economic reasons. The Victoria Broadband Commission is exploring solutions that would encourage internet providers to install their networks in underserved areas.

5. How will I know when the installation crews are coming to my street?

Before the installation occurs, crews will visit neighborhoods and leave notes on doors to inform residents of the installation schedule.

6. How will the networks be installed?

Depending on the location, the providers will either install cables belowground (in the public right-of-way along streets) or hang them from utility poles.

7. Will the crews come onto my property during the installation?

Crews will stay on the public right-of-way, where the installation will take place. If the public right-of-way is fenced off, they will contact you to request access. Crews will not enter your property without your permission.

8. Will the crews trim my trees during the installation?

If the crews are installing aboveground cables, they may trim nearby trees that are hanging into the public area. This is a routine practice in aboveground utility installation.

9. Since two companies are installing networks, will my street be visited twice?

Possibly, if both companies are planning to provide internet in your area. AT&T and Sparklight are both private companies, so they will each install their own cables.

10. How will I know that the crews are legitimate? I’m worried about scammers.

AT&T and Sparklight are planning to use Quest Contracting and Onyx Contractors, respectively. Any utility vehicles that come to your area will be marked with the names of the contractor crews or the internet providers.

If you are unsure whether a crew is legitimate, you can reach out to Sparklight or AT&T for verification. You can call AT&T at 361-884-8288 or Sparklight at 903-312-4866. 

11. Who should I contact if I have any questions?

Because the networks are being installed by private companies, you should reach out to the companies directly if you have any questions. You can call AT&T at 361-884-8288 or Sparklight at 361-433-0056.

More information about AT&T Fiber: www.att.com/internet/fiber-is-coming/