Connext builds fiber network in Ogden, expanding local internet options

OGDEN Connext, which is already expanding its fiber-optic network to several locations in Northern Utah, is coming to Ogden.

The result when the network is complete will be another Internet option for consumers beyond incumbents like Comcast and CenturyLink. Connext, headquartered in Ogden, has completed networks in Farr West and Clinton and is in the process of completing systems in Plain City, Kaysville and South Weber.

We will take on the task of connecting everyone, said Connext spokesman Brian Papworth. That is, the company plans to roll out fiber throughout Ogden, not just more densely populated areas where it’s easier to enroll more users by allowing anyone interested to connect to the system.

Connext launched development of a network in South Ogden in April and work began on the Ogden network on Monday which is expected to cost $30 million to $40 million. Connext also plans to build in Sunset, among other locations.

The announcement of Connexts plans in Ogden comes amid a flurry of Internet development in northern Utah and beyond as Internet connectivity becomes an increasingly critical commodity. All West Communications started a $16 million network to be built in North Ogden last February, while officials in West Haven and Syracuse, among other cities, are working with UTOPIA Fiber in building networks in those locations.

Ogden’s network is expected to be completed within a couple of years, Papworth estimates, though residents will be able to connect in built-up areas as development progresses. Meanwhile, customers are already signing up in Kaysville and other locations where Connext is expanding.

We are meeting subscriber expectations, Papworth said. We are now trying to exceed expectations.

Connexts residential offerings start at $35 a month for speeds of 100 megabits per second. Next is a 250Mbps option for $50 a month and a 1 gigabit per second option for $65.

Connext received a non-exclusive franchise deal to build its network in the right-of-way city from Ogden last year. It has already installed fiber in a test area in the city, and its fiber will be underground in some sections and hanging from existing utility poles in other areas.

Connext has also partnered with the City of Ogden, most notably by constructing a 5-mile fiber-optic ring around the city-owned Ogden-Hinckley Airport. During that partnership, we helped the City of Ogden reduce or remove many of its telecommunications connectivity costs, Connext Chief Executive Officer David Brown said in a statement.

A public ceremony marking the planned construction of Connext in Ogden is scheduled for June 7 at 4:00 PM under the Ogden Arch on Washington Boulevard. A ceremony marking the development of a system in Sunset will be held June 6 starting at 5:45 p.m. Connext also has plans to expand to Washington Terrace, with a ceremony to kick off work perhaps within the next month or so.