Crystal Lake, IL
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The City of Crystal Lake was approached in 2023 by i3 Broadband regarding their intent to install a fiber optic network in the City. This is a multi-year project, which involves several McHenry County communities including Algonquin, McHenry, Lake in the Hills, Huntley and Woodstock. While i3 Broadband is entitled by state law to use the City’s rights-of-way for its equipment, they are also bound to follow the provisions of the municipal code. On May 2, 2023 the City Council approved i3 Broadband’s Right-of-Way Permitting Agreement between the City and i3 Broadband.
What is a fiber-optic network?
Fiber optic lines are made of strands of glass fibers that transmit data smoothly, quickly and with more power than traditional cable technology. Fiber transmits data at speeds far exceeding DSL or cable modem speeds.
Where is this happening?
i3 Broadband anticipates installing infrastructure throughout McHenry County, including portions of the City of Crystal Lake. The active locations, as well as the locations coming soon, are available to view on the City’s GIS map below.
Once you open the map, click the “All Layers” button on the right hand side of the screen. Then, scroll down to find the layer called, “i3 Broadband Areas”. Check the box to turn the layer on.
What can residents/businesses expect?
Residents will be notified by a door tag at least one week before construction starts, with contact information provided for any questions. Inspectors will be on site throughout the work to ensure everything is done properly. All work will stay within the right-of-way or utility easements, and conduit will be installed using boring methods that limit ground disturbance.
How will property be restored?
This project may disturb grass areas and potentially pavement for utility crossings, though efforts are made to minimize pavement impacts. Any disturbed areas will be restored to their original condition on the same day or before final inspection, with grass reinstallation continuing afterward if needed.
What is a right-of-way or an easement?
The right-of-way is public property that includes the roadway and land extending a set distance from its center line, which varies by location. Easements are private property areas that utility companies can access, usually established before a home is built and shown on a plat of survey. They may be located in the front, rear, or side yards. i3 Broadband is considered a utility company and as such, may perform construction within the utility easements of the properties within the permitted sector.
Why has the City approved this project?
The City does not have the ability to restrict compliant requests for such infrastructure placement; the City has a right-of-way ordinance providing the full extent of regulation we can legally enforce, and which was adhered to in the i3 agreement. The City is subject to strong federal preemption regarding the ability to regulate this type of infrastructure placement in rights-of-way.