Verizon has begun its initial deployments of FiOS, with installation of fiber-based triple-play services in parts of Dorchester, Rosindale and West Roxbury beginning today.
This follows Verizon’s April announcement that it would spend $300 million over the next six years to bring FiOS to Boston—news that wasn’t great to hear for the region’s incumbent cable operators, Comcast and RCN.
Verizon said it will also deploy FiOS to Roxbury’s Dudley Square Innovation District by the end of the year, bringing FiOS passings in Boston to 25,000.
Verizon said it has put down 160 miles of fiber lines in Boston since announcing the plan seven months ago.
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The FiOS bundle includes 150 Mbps symmetrical broadband service, the telco provider’s “Custom TV” video package and voice service, promotionally priced at $80 a month for the first year.
“Boston will continue to grow and thrive, and Boston’s residents need fast, reliable communications services built on the latest technologies,” said Mayor Martin J. Walsh, in a statement. “I look forward to working with Verizon to bring more choice and upgraded technology to Boston’s residents and businesses.”
Verizon has spent $23 billion over the last decade deploying FiOS video, internet and phone services in more than a dozen states. The service now touts around 7 million internet users and 5.8 million pay-TV customers. For cable, the fiber competition has often resulted in lower margins and increased churn.
Currently, city officials said that about 90% of Boston residents have only one option, Comcast, for HSI and pay-TV.