Sertex Extends OpenCape Fiber Network into Underserved Hyannis
After more than a decade of successful partnerships on many regional buildouts, Sertex is again working with OpenCape to extend its 100% fiber optic network on Cape Cod.
The Town of Barnstable, Mass. received $297,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to increase digital connectivity by building affordable, cutting-edge fiber internet for residents and businesses in select underserved neighborhoods in downtown Hyannis.
OpenCape owns and operates approximately 500 miles of fiber optic network that extends from Providence, RI, to southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
Steve Johnston, OpenCape CEO and Executive Director observed, "Through our partnership with Sertex, we are expanding high-speed fiber infrastructure in downtown Hyannis to promote digital inclusivity and innovation. We trust Sertex crews to deliver the same dependable, high-quality technical and customer support service in Hyannis that they’ve provided to our projects over the past decade."
For the Hyannis project, Sertex crews will install approximately 355 fiber drops to 98 residential addresses, 182 commercial spaces, and 75 multi-dwelling units. Neighborhoods that OpenCape’s Hyannis expansion will serve are included in the Massachusetts 2020 Environmental Justice Block, an area focused on individuals and businesses in the low- to moderate-income (LMI) demographic.
Expanding Digital Access and Inclusion
Sertex crews will install approximately three miles of aerial and underground cable, provide fiber splicing and testing services, and install in-home and business devices. Crews will also create wireless access points at vital community assets, including the Senior Center, Hyannis Youth and Community Center, YMCA Headstart, the Hyannis Public Library, the HyArts Programming Annex, and others.
Once operational, the downtown Hyannis network will eliminate one-time connection costs and offer budget-friendly monthly service while delivering robust, reliable, and affordable internet access. These connections can facilitate enhanced remote education, remote employment, telehealth, and overall community impact.
“We’re proud to support Open Cape's mission to provide local, reliable, and affordable broadband with 100% fiber connectivity,” said Michael Solitro, president and founder of Sertex. “We know that Hyannis businesses and residents will be very happy with their new fiber service, especially when the population swells in the summer. Service will not slow to a crawl – fiber can easily handle high volume demand.”
Once the installation is completed, Sertex will provide ongoing maintenance services as needed.