LEXINGTON, S.C. — For many residents in Lexington, the last week has been more confusing than helpful after a surprise announcement that fiber optic installation would be happening in their yards.
Julia Head says she's had a stressful week after the announcement of a planned fiber optic installation in her Lexington neighborhood. Just a week ago, she found a yellow door hanger letting her know Ripple Fiber Optics would begin installing cable in her area.
"People have things like sprinkler systems in their yards, invisible fences. I think the majority of the concern is from neighbors not feeling like we were adequately prepared," Head explains," "You would think for such a large scale project like this, we would've known months in advance. It almost seems like some things are trying to fly under the radar."
Her fears were felt by other neighbors we spoke to on Wednesday, so we began looking for answers. The Town of Lexington posted information on Facebook saying the company will be installing fiber optics to 19 different neighborhoods in town, utilizing the right-of-way.
To town administrator Rachelle Gleaton, the company has all the legal permits and permission to start work but did not give the town a timeline for the project.
"We first heard from them about a week ago, and we heard from them at about the same time that they showed up and started installing the fiber in the right of way." She adds, "A variety of staff across multiple departments have been in touch with the company trying to understand their plans, how long they're going to be on the ground, etc. Like I said, just yesterday I had a phone call their government affairs manager, to better understand the project, that way I could educate our council people, that we could educate our residents."
We reached out to Ripple who sent us a statement that reads, "Ripple Fiber has been made aware of the concerns from residents regarding the current project in the town of Lexington. We have obtained local permits as required and are actively working with town administration to address issues related to resident notification. Ripple Fiber takes the concerns of the community seriously and strives for transparency and minimal disruption throughout the construction process as we invest to bring world-class internet to the residents of Lexington."
Head tells us she'll be following the developments closely and paying close attention once construction crews make it to her home.
"I welcome new business here, I want a competitive market, but I just want them to do it the right way," she says.
The Town of Lexington says if you still have concerns, you should reach out to Ripple directly. their contact page can be found here.