NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Google is warning that an impasse over access to utility poles could lead the company to pull the plug on its plans to bring its fiber optic broadband service to Nashville.
The Tennessean reports that Mayor Megan Barry is urging the Nashville Electric Service to help seek a resolution among Google Fiber, AT&T and Comcast regarding the city’s utility pole policy.
Google Fiber says it needs Metro Council to enact a “one touch” policy to allow its contractors to move other telecoms’ lines in order install its own. Comcast and AT&T say current rules requiring their own employees to move the lines prevent outages and limit liability and safety concerns.
Chris Levendos, head of Google Fiber’s network deployment, said the company could walk away if a deal isn’t struck.
