Western Springs Eyes Fiber Optic Network For Entire Village

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL — Western Springs is looking into the costs and benefits of building a fiber optic network that would be available for businesses and residents, the village said in a statement this week. The village already has a fiber optic network that connects its municipal buildings, the park district, local schools and the library. The most recent portion was added in 2010.

Depending on a number of factors, the network would cost an estimated $9.1 million to $16.7 million. If the village wants to pursue detailed costs, it would require the participation of an outside firm to assist it with the development of a strategic plan, the statement said.

"As more advanced technology comes into the mainstream, it is important to adopt and promote growth through building and maintaining a strong, faster means of keeping the world connected," the village said in the statement.