Community foundation changing name of internet service to Steuben County Fiber Network

“This rebranding better clarifies our mission and purpose of serving the Steuben County community,” said Jim Burns, chairman of the board. “It also shows appreciation to the Steuben County Community Foundation and Steuben County Government for their substantial investments. The Steuben County Fiber Network is poised for sustained growth in the coming years and will continue to be an asset to the business, education, healthcare and government sectors in our community.”

The Steuben County Fiber Network was established in 2001 as a supporting organization of the Steuben County Community Foundation. Since then, over $4.75 million dollars has been donated by private companies, government entities, and foundations, most notably $2 million from the Steuben County government through Major Moves funds in 2011. The dark fiber network is governed by an independent board of directors and manages 145 business, nonprofit and government connections.

“I’m very pleased that the Foundation would make that consideration,” said Ron Smith, president of the Steuben County Board of Commissioners.

It was the commissioners who made the decision to put $2 million of Major Moves money toward the build out of the fiber system that would allow it to be expanded to all corners of Steuben County. Appropriation of the money was followed by the Steuben County Council.

“The county made that investment because it seemed like the right thing to do. We’re happy to see it continue to grow,” Smith said.