ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — As Albuquerque continues its transition to fiber optic internet infrastructure, construction efforts have sparked growing concerns among local residents, prompting the city to host a town hall meeting to address these issues. The initiative aims to expand high-speed internet access across the city, but the construction process has left some neighborhoods frustrated with disruptions, property damage, and incomplete installations.
Earlier this year, Albuquerque residents raised alarms over utility lines being cut, lawns being torn up, and incomplete work during fiber optic installation projects. These complaints drew attention from city officials, leading to discussions of a potential moratorium on permits for internet companies to pause construction and resolve outstanding issues. However, in August, the Albuquerque City Council chose to suspend this moratorium, allowing the projects to continue while the city seeks solutions to address community concerns.
On Tuesday night, City Councilor Dan Champine facilitated a town hall meeting at the Holiday Park Community Center, providing a platform for residents to share their experiences and ask questions directly to city officials and representatives of the companies involved in the fiber optic project. The focus was on construction activities in the Northeast Heights and Foothills areas, where installation has recently intensified.
Over a dozen residents attended the session, expressing frustrations over property disruptions and incomplete work. Many noted that trenches dug for fiber optic lines were left open or inadequately covered, creating safety hazards and inconvenience. Some homeowners also reported damages to landscaping, including broken sprinkler systems and disrupted gardens, which compounded their dissatisfaction.
“I understand the importance of improving internet infrastructure, but the way it’s being done in our neighborhoods has been disruptive and sometimes careless,” said one attendee. “We want reliable service, but not at the cost of our property or safety.”
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City officials acknowledged the community’s frustrations, emphasizing that the fiber optic project is a critical step in modernizing Albuquerque’s internet network and ensuring residents have access to faster and more reliable connectivity. According to officials, the project will enhance internet speeds, improve reliability, and support technological growth for homes and businesses throughout the city.
Councilor Champine stressed that the town hall was intended as an opportunity to listen to residents’ concerns and provide guidance on how to report issues, rather than to halt construction entirely. “We’re not planning to stop this project,” Champine said. “Our goal is to work with residents and internet providers to ensure that the construction process is as smooth and minimally disruptive as possible.”
Representatives from the companies managing fiber optic installations were also present, explaining that while construction can be disruptive, crews are working to complete installations as efficiently as possible. They assured residents that they are committed to repairing any damage caused during construction and addressing complaints in a timely manner.
One key takeaway from the town hall was the emphasis on communication and reporting. Residents were encouraged to document any damage, safety hazards, or incomplete work and submit complaints to both the city and the internet providers. City staff committed to monitoring these reports closely and following up with the companies to ensure timely resolution.
Despite these reassurances, some attendees remained skeptical about whether issues would be adequately addressed. Several residents expressed frustration that past complaints had not been resolved quickly, and they urged the city to hold companies accountable for property damage or negligence.
“This is a big investment for the city, and we all want better internet,” said another resident. “But if people’s yards are ruined and problems go unaddressed, it undermines trust in the project and the city’s oversight.”
City officials emphasized that the fiber optic expansion is a long-term effort designed to bring Albuquerque into alignment with modern technology standards. While short-term disruptions are inevitable, they argued that the benefits of enhanced connectivity—such as improved internet speed for remote learning, business operations, and telehealth services—will outweigh temporary inconveniences.
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The town hall also served as an educational forum, informing residents about the construction process, typical timelines, and expected outcomes. City staff explained that fiber optic installation often involves trenching and road work, which can temporarily disrupt lawns, sidewalks, and utility lines. Residents were advised that once construction is complete, landscaping and affected infrastructure will be restored according to city standards.
As construction continues in the Northeast Heights and Foothills, city officials pledged to maintain open communication with neighborhoods and offer ongoing updates. Future town halls may be scheduled to address issues in other areas as the project expands. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged, report concerns promptly, and participate in discussions that influence how the project is managed locally.
In summary, while Albuquerque’s fiber optic initiative has generated frustration due to construction impacts, city leaders and internet providers are working to balance infrastructure development with community needs. Town halls like the one at Holiday Park provide a platform for residents to voice concerns, learn about the project, and collaborate with city officials to minimize disruptions while advancing technological improvements.
The city continues to reaffirm its commitment to both enhancing internet connectivity and maintaining the safety and well-being of Albuquerque neighborhoods throughout the fiber optic rollout.
