Full Breakdown
Orland Park Halts Fiber-Optic Construction Amid Complaints and Power Outage
12/15/2025, 3:58:20 AM
Immediate Suspension of Fiber-Optic Projects
The Village of Orland Park, located in Chicago's southwest suburbs, has suspended all construction permits for fiber-optic projects following a series of complaints from residents. This decision comes in the wake of a significant incident on December 8, when contractors from Astound caused a power outage affecting approximately 300 homes in the Catalina subdivision for over seven hours. The village board voted unanimously to halt future construction until various issues are addressed, including unrepaired property damage, open holes, and work performed outside of permitted hours.
Background and Context
The decision to pause fiber-optic construction is rooted in ongoing concerns about the quality and safety of work conducted by internet service providers, including Astound and Abovenet, a unit of the Zayo Group. Residents have reported unsafe conditions, including open trenches and incomplete restorations, prompting the village to take action. Mayor Jim Dodge emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “Everyone wants a better internet but it needs to be done the right way.”
New Regulations and Enforcement Measures
In response to the complaints, Orland Park is implementing stricter regulations for fiber-optic construction. These include limits on the number of active construction zones, mandatory notifications to residents prior to work commencement, clear identification for vehicles and contractors, and increased fines for utility strikes or delays in restoration. The village aims to ensure faster repairs and clearer accountability among providers and subcontractors.
Criticism and Opposition
While the village's actions are aimed at protecting residents, some critics argue that the suspension of construction could delay the rollout of essential broadband services. The Illinois Connect Illinois program, supported by federal funding, is designed to accelerate broadband deployment across the state, and the halt in Orland Park could hinder progress in this initiative.
Official Statements & Responses
Village Clerk Mary Ryan Norwell, who experienced the power outage firsthand, expressed frustration over the lack of communication from Astound during the incident. “The company never notified us what had happened,” she stated, highlighting the need for better resident engagement from service providers. The village has called for residents to report any construction-related concerns through a dedicated fiber page or by contacting Public Works.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Despite the village's efforts to regulate fiber-optic construction, state law limits local governments' authority over such projects. The Cable and Video Competition Law of 2007 allows state-authorized providers to use public rights-of-way and mandates that local permits are deemed granted if not acted upon within 45 days. This legal framework complicates the village's ability to enforce stricter regulations without risking potential legal challenges.
What's Next
Construction permits will remain suspended until the involved internet service providers demonstrate compliance with the new regulations and address outstanding damages. Village officials are committed to ensuring that any future work is conducted safely and responsibly, balancing the need for improved internet access with the rights and safety of residents.
