Local News

Liberty VI Continues to Expands Fiber Coverage Across USVI, Promising Reliable High-Speed Internet

29 October 2024
This content originally appeared on The Virgin Islands Consortium.
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Liberty VI is advancing its commitment to expanding high-speed fiber internet throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands with ongoing fiber network projects in St. Croix and St. Thomas. With permits approved for both Estate Barren Spot on St. Croix and Estate Nazareth on St. Thomas, the telecommunications company has outlined detailed plans for construction and projected completion timelines, with an aim to enhance connectivity and bolster network resilience against natural weather events.

In Estate Barren Spot, work will resume on October 29, following delays due to equipment upgrades and design updates. Liberty VI’s general manager, Ravindra Maywahlall, stressed the company’s commitment to bringing reliable high-speed internet to more areas across the territory.

“As we acquire the necessary permits, we are moving forward with our Fiber to the Home construction projects so more locations in the territory can have access to our fiber fast internet,” he said. Liberty VI anticipates completing the project within four weeks, after which residents and businesses will benefit from improved broadband access.

For the Estate Nazareth project on St. Thomas, Liberty VI announced that work would begin on October 28. With an expected duration of approximately seven weeks, this buildout will employ advanced underground installation techniques to minimize roadway disruptions. The use of a micro-trenching technique will limit pavement cuts to 1¾ inches, significantly reducing dust and maintaining roadway integrity. Liberty VI also aims to leverage existing underground ducts where possible, further reducing the impact of construction on the local environment.

Both projects will include the installation of underground conduits and fiber optic cables, with construction planned for weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Liberty VI said it is committed to maintaining minimal traffic disruption, though residents and drivers should anticipate potential delays and partial lane closures. To avoid obstructions, the company advises residents to park on their properties rather than on the street. Liberty VI has also pledged to keep the community informed with project updates through its website, allowing residents to plan their commutes accordingly.

The underground fiber installation enhances the network’s resilience, safeguarding it from natural disasters, vandalism, and other hazards. The company said it will continue to provide information on its website about construction schedules and locations for future projects across the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Liberty, a subsidiary of Liberty Latin America, has been making strides to bring high-speed internet and mobile services to the Virgin Islands. The company said it currently provides 5G mobile coverage to 95% of the population and plans to further strengthen its infrastructure with these fiber initiatives.