Columbia Welcomes Back Lumos Fiber Optic Internet Company
Columbia, South Carolina, is buzzing with excitement as the fiber optic internet company, Lumos, makes a much-anticipated return to the area. Although its past has been a bit rocky, the enthusiasm for high-speed internet is palpable as the company sets to work in the Murraywood neighborhood near Irmo.
The Latest Developments
Starting last week, Lumos crews swiftly began burying fiber optic cables in the Murraywood area, a project that aims to bring advanced internet options to homes that previously lacked such services. According to the company’s vice president of market development, Derek Kelly, they plan to shift their focus quickly across Irmo, with additional work scheduled for Cayce and Lexington.
Locals are beginning to notice construction activity, with small plastic notices popping up in yards along Willow Creek Drive. These notices reassure residents that while construction might be a bit messy, Lumos promises to leave the area “just as neat or better than it started.”
Expanding Connectivity
Lumos has grand plans for Irmo, including adding WiFi to parks within the town, which is exciting news for outdoor enthusiasts and families. The company has also made strides in other Midlands communities like Cayce, Lexington, and West Columbia over the past year.
With more people streaming movies and working from home, the demand for high-speed internet is skyrocketing. “We could continue to add additional areas we’ll be working in a little bit, but it’s not completely up to us,” Kelly explained, pointing out that they rely on local towns for permitting.
Looking Back: A Bumpy Road
While Lumos is forging ahead with its expansion, it’s essential to remember that their journey hasn’t been without challenges. Last year, Columbia officials halted Lumos’ work after multiple incidents where utility crews accidentally caused gas leaks in the Elmwood Park neighborhood, leading to temporary evacuations and arterial road closures.
Despite these setbacks, Lumos secured permission to resume work, although more troubles arose over the summer when crews hit water mains in Columbia. Nevertheless, these hiccups haven’t deterred Lumos from going ahead with its plans, as they recently announced that they would lay down 1,200 miles of fiber optic cable between Richland and Lexington counties.
Community Commitments
“Doing any kind of utility work can be an intrusive project,” Kelly acknowledged, stressing the importance of accurately locating existing utilities and the role of thorough preparation in avoiding accidents. Lumos crews strive to complete projects efficiently, typically finishing work in a specific area within just a few days.
If residents have any concerns about the work happening near their property, Kelly encourages them to reach out via the contact information provided on the notices placed in their yards.
Investing in South Carolina
Lumos has publicly committed to investing $100 million in the Midlands over the next few years. This investment is aimed at expanding high-speed internet access for underserved areas, bolstering economic development, and improving overall connectivity in the community.
In addition to its ongoing projects in Columbia, Lumos is also active in North Carolina and Virginia, and they recently announced plans for a similar $100 million investment in Greenville County. If you’re a resident of Irmo or nearby, this expansion can greatly enhance your access to reliable and fast internet.
In the meantime, Irmo is also considering another internet provider, Spectrum, for a project that may involve digging up part of Veterans Park. Exciting times are ahead for local residents as Columbia opens its arms to better internet connectivity and improved services!
