AltonWorks FiberNet now live: Enterprise-grade fiber broadband available to Alton residents
In a milestone moment that will reshape Alton’s future for generations, community leaders, residents, and partners gathered today at Alton Fire Department Station No. 2 to celebrate the official launch of AltonWorks FiberNet, which is a transformative 100-year infrastructure investment that will deliver enterprise-grade fiber broadband to nearly 100 percent of city residents.
“This is more than a technology project. It’s a commitment to equity, a catalyst for innovation, and a gateway to unprecedented opportunity for every Alton family, business and institution,” the official statement noted.
“Today marks Alton’s entrance into the next century,” said John Simmons, CEO of AltonWorks. “We’re not just installing cables. We’re dismantling digital barriers, unlocking innovation, and ensuring that every child, every entrepreneur, and every resident has access to the same world-class opportunities as anyone, anywhere. This network will serve Alton for the next 100 years, evolving with technology we can’t even imagine today.”
Local and state lawmakers and leaders were also on hand to celebrate the highly anticipated formal announcement.
On March 14, 2025, i3 Broadband, the internet operator, had broken ground on the project.
AltonWorks FiberNet was established with four core principles: First, reach as many people as possible. Second, prioritize the unserved and underserved. Third, maximize every dollar within its budget. Fourth, reserve 12 fiber strands throughout the city for future community needs.
Closing the digital divide with purpose
With symmetrical speeds up to 10 gigabits, the same connectivity used by Fortune 500 companies, AltonWorks FiberNet eliminates the digital divide that has held back too many communities.
Students can access virtual classrooms and advanced courses. Seniors can connect with healthcare providers from home. Small businesses can serve customers worldwide. Remote workers can collaborate seamlessly with teams across continents.
“Every student deserves the ability to participate fully in 21st-century education,” said Mark Carlie, FiberNet project executive. “Every family deserves access to telehealth services. Every entrepreneur deserves the tools to compete globally. This network makes those opportunities real for nearly every household in Alton.”
Innovation infrastructure for generations
“We’re not just delivering internet,” said Paul Cronin, CEO of i3 Broadband. “We’re delivering, right here in Alton, the same digital access used by Fortune 500 companies.”
The AltonWorks FiberNet represents one of the region’s most ambitious infrastructure investments, backed by support from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).
“This project’s impact extends way beyond Alton,” said Cameron Joost, DCEO assistant director. “It’s a model for communities across Illinois approaching broadband infrastructure with vision, partnership, and commitment to equity.”
The network features 79 percent underground installation for long-term durability and minimal visual impact. Illinois-based i3 Broadband, working with JF Electric, is constructing the network and i3 Broadband will operate the network.
“We’re giving Alton families and businesses the same digital tools as the biggest cities in America,” said Simmons. “A student in Alton can now take a Stanford online course. A local business can video conference with clients in Tokyo. A senior can have a specialist appointment without driving to St. Louis. This is about fundamentally expanding what’s possible.”
Looking forward
As neighborhoods connect over the coming months, AltonWorks and i3 Broadband will host celebration events featuring live demonstrations, sign-up assistance, and opportunities for residents to experience fiber internet firsthand. The Wedge Innovation Center connection is planned for early 2026, symbolizing the network’s role in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation.
Provided photo.
