Story perspectives

West Hollywood Abandons Broadband Expansion Amid Soaring Costs

11/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The West Hollywood City Council abandoned a citywide broadband expansion plan due to costs rising from an estimated $25 million to $42 million.
This initiative aimed to enhance internet access for lower-income residents, with about 72% lacking reliable fiber-based services.
The city adopted a Fiber Network Infrastructure and Service Strategic Plan in 2016 to prioritize municipal broadband.
Currently, fiber-optic internet is mainly available along Santa Monica Boulevard, with future plans for Sunset Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue.
Mayor Chelsea Lee Byers highlighted the need to treat internet as a utility.

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Story summary

The West Hollywood City Council abandoned a citywide broadband expansion plan due to costs rising from an estimated $25 million to $42 million.
This initiative aimed to enhance internet access for lower-income residents, with about 72% lacking reliable fiber-based services.
The city adopted a Fiber Network Infrastructure and Service Strategic Plan in 2016 to prioritize municipal broadband.
Currently, fiber-optic internet is mainly available along Santa Monica Boulevard, with future plans for Sunset Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue.
Mayor Chelsea Lee Byers highlighted the need to treat internet as a utility.