Local Tech Wire
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – will work with North Carolina-based CommScope (NYSE: CTV) to obtain materials for the upcoming expansion of the North Carolina Research and Education Network.
The value of the contract is estimated at $2.5 million over the next three years.
CommScope, which operates its headquarters in Hickory, is one of the world’s largest providers of fiber optic cable and cable used by TV and communication service providers.
The agreement with CommScope covers MCNC’s expansion of NCREN in southeastern and western North Carolina.
“As a North Carolina-based company, we are thrilled to be chosen by MCNC for a project that not only creates jobs in North Carolina but has the potential to provide tremendous, long-lasting benefits to our state’s residents,” said Ric Johnsen, vice president and general manager of Broadband Solutions for CommScope.
MCNC is in the process of launching the first phase of a two-part NCREN expansion program. The initial project costs $39.9 million, including $28.2 million in federal funding.
MCNC is working with FRC/PalmettoNet on the initial project.
Materials from CommScope include:
• Approximately 500 miles of fiber
• 1,000 miles of conduit
• Approximately 600 “hand holds” for networks
• 10,000 couplers
• Approximately 100 splices cases
• Approximately 750 marking posts
• 100 grounding rods
“This is a perfect opportunity to show the world that North Carolina is a leader in broadband connectivity,” said Tommy Jacobson, MCNC’s vice president for Network Infrastructure Initiatives. “We are excited about what CommScope brings to the table through its global leadership, local presence, and unique logistics capabilities as MCNC continues expanding a future-proof network infrastructure to help every citizen in this state.”
A construction vendor is expected to be picked within the next month.
MCNC’s second phase of expansion with $75.76 million in federal funding and $24 million in supports from Golden LEAF.
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