(Idaho Falls, ID) - Idaho Falls residents are one-step closer to accessing cutting-edge, high-speed fiber optic internet service with the launch of the new Idaho Falls Fiber (IFF) website.

Starting on March 4, residents within the identified boundaries of the pilot program will now be able to sign up for fiber service by visiting www.idahofallsfiber.com or calling IFF Customer Service at 208-612-8725.

Idaho Falls Fiber has currently partnered with four local internet providers, Direct Communications, Qwknet, SilverStar, and SUMO, to offer residents a variety of internet services and pricing.

Those in the pilot area that are interested in receiving service can visit the website and enter their address to determine fiber availability at their location.  Once a customer confirms availability at their specific location, residents can continue the sign-up process by selecting a service package and provider that fits their needs.

“This is a milestone for Idaho Falls residents,” said Bear Prairie, General Manager of Idaho Falls Power and Idaho Falls Fiber. “We’ve had great response from local internet providers and we’re now ready to roll this program out to the public.  There has been a lot of support and interest from the community for this, so it’s an exciting time and we’re eager to start connecting customers.”

Once residents have signed up for service and selected their provider, Idaho Falls Fiber will schedule a site survey and appointment with the customer for the installation of the actual fiber to the residence.  Once the fiber is installed, the local internet provider will begin Internet service to the customer.

Mayor Rebecca Casper and the Idaho Falls City Council approved the pilot program last September, and expressed excitement for the opportunity to work with the local internet community to provide the cutting-edge internet access to the community. 

 “This kind of a public-private partnership is exciting. It allows the city to focus on infrastructure—something we excel at,” said Casper. “And, it allows the local internet providers to offer services residents trust from companies they know. It captures the best of both worlds.”

The new website also provides pilot program area maps, information on how fiber optics works, billing and service details along with a wide variety of other frequently asked questions about fiber optics and the service. 

As directed by the city council, Idaho Falls Fiber will use data from the pilot program to examine the feasibility and costs associated with expanding high-speed fiber throughout the rest of the community.

“We are anticipating strong support and sign-ups to join the network which will validate the demand in our community for this type of infrastructure” explained Prairie.

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For more information or to arrange interviews with Idaho Falls Power or Idaho Falls Fiber staff, contact City of Idaho Falls Public Information Officer Bud Cranor at 208-612-8306.