MetroNet, an Internet service provider planning to offer services in Carmel, has been cleared to resume work. The company, which had to stop digging on Aug. 30 after 14 gas lines were ruptured, has updated its safety practices, including improved sub-contractor training.
If MetroNet violates its agreement with Carmel it could result in another stop work order.
“I’m pleased that we have a plan that ensures safety as their system continues to be installed,” Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard said.
Before digging resumes, MetroNet has agreed to notify affected neighbors 30 days prior to work on their property. MetroNet has agreed to have construction personnel assigned to supervise and monitor work. These employees will have completed the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission Pipeline Safety Division training. There will be a MetroNet employee at every dig site to communicate with property owners and MetroNet will visit any previously damaged properties to resolve problems.
Brainard said MetroNet will be a positive presence after it finishes installation because its new technology provides extremely high speed Internet using fiber optic cables.
“We absolutely need it,” he said. “But it’s the city’s responsibility to make sure citizens are safe.”
Brainard said there’s also the possibility that other companies may want to put in new fiber optic services as well.
“We’ve also got calls from Comcast that they want to put their lines in the right of way as well,” he said.