ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A proposed Albuquerque ordinance aimed at managing fiber internet construction is generating debate ahead of a City Council vote, with city officials and supporters disagreeing over how the changes could affect homeowners.
The proposal comes after months of complaints from residents about broadband construction projects that have left behind damaged yards, landscaping, sidewalks, and other property issues as companies expand high-speed internet networks across the city.
According to city officials, Albuquerque has received hundreds of complaints related to fiber installation work.
“We’ve seen more complaints than ever,” said Catherine Nicolaou, the city’s broadband program manager.
Nicolaou argues the proposal could reduce some of the city’s ability to limit construction activity in areas where multiple companies are working at the same time. She says the changes could lead to additional disruption in neighborhoods already dealing with ongoing broadband construction.
The measure, sponsored by City Councilor Dan Champine, would limit the city’s ability to impose moratoriums on broadband construction projects and provide more flexibility for restoration deadlines when delays are caused by weather, inspections, or material shortages.
Champine says the proposal is not intended to ease requirements on broadband providers but instead places existing expectations and procedures into city ordinance.
“All I simply did was write them in an ordinance,” Champine said.
The proposal would continue requiring broadband companies to provide advance notice to residents, respond to complaints in a timely manner, and complete repairs under city oversight.
Champine acknowledged concerns about damage caused during construction and says one goal of the ordinance is to improve accountability by clearly outlining requirements for companies and their subcontractors.
As demand for faster internet service grows, multiple fiber providers have been expanding networks throughout Albuquerque, bringing increased construction activity into residential neighborhoods.
The proposal is expected to go before the Albuquerque City Council for consideration this week.
