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KM fiber optics to save city moneyDec 04, 2012 (The Star - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- KINGS MOUNTAIN -- A faster, more efficient way of connecting is headed to Kings Mountain in 2013. The Kings Mountain City Council unanimously approved contracts to begin inside and outside infrastructure building for its fiber optic project. The fiber optics network will provide city employees with quicker Internet and phone service. Installing fiber optics is expected to save the city around $65,000 per year for foregoing using a larger company's connections. "We should start seeing the savings within seven years," Kings Mountain Mayor Rick Murphrey said. "It's cheaper to use your own fiber optics." The city's push for its own fiber optic network comes on the heels of RST Global Communications. The company has provided a similar network to county residents since 2009. A gain for the city The fiber optic cables are nine miles in length. They'll stretch through two healing rings placed on the city's outskirts. The system's mainframe will be inside the city's public works building, Murphrey said. All city departments, including fire, police and city hall, are under the system. "We hope to have the majority of the departments connected by the first of the year," Murphrey said. The city approved two companies, Katalyst and OFS, for building the project's inside and outside infrastructure. It includes installing the main computer system to the fiber optic cables. The entire project will cost $495,722 with a five-year payment plan in place. "Taxpayers' dollars are helping to pay for this, but no increase," Murphrey said about rates. "(Funds will also) come out of the electric, gas and water fund." A second computer system will be in place for backup. The city is allowed to lease unused fiber optic to industries, creating additional profit from the network. "Anytime we save money for the city, we keep costs down for our citizens. This is a gain for us," Murphrey said. Reach reporter Alicia Banks at 704-669-3338, email at [email protected] and follow on Twitter @TheStarAlicia. ___ (c)2012 The Star (Shelby, N.C.) Visit The Star (Shelby, N.C.) at www.shelbystar.com Distributed by MCT Information Services |