Chittenden County to get high-speed internet boost from Fidium: What towns are next?

Read the full article here: https://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/story/news/local/vermont/2025/05/12/high-speed-internet-chittenden-county-essex-town-jericho-shelburne-williston/83533962007/

Fidium Fiber is expanding its internet network in Chittenden County, aiming to provide high-speed access to over 1,800 homes and businesses, according to a community announcement.

The expansion, in partnership with the Chittenden County Communications Union District (CCCUD), targets unserved and underserved areas in Essex Town, Jericho, Shelburne, Westford and Williston.

Construction is set to begin as early as May 12 in Shelburne, with plans to continue throughout the summer.

“Fiber access for these locations means filling the accessibility gaps that exist in our communities, offering everyone a high-speed, high-quality connection no matter their address,” said Michael Vance, chair of district. “We are excited for Fidium’s construction to get underway, bringing connectivity to the locations that need it most.”

Fidium will bring multi-gig speed, all-fiber access to more than 1,800 homes and businesses in Chittenden County through its network expansion.
The network upgrade is expected to bring several benefits, including improved educational outcomes, reduced healthcare costs and enhanced economic opportunities.

"The wait is nearly over, as Fidium’s future-proof network expansion will bring all-new opportunities and benefits to CCCUD communities,” said Sarah Davis, director of Market Development for Fidium. “Fiber transforms how we live and work, powering new employment, entertainment, educational and economic opportunities that were not previously accessible. We appreciate the community’s patience, as we work over the next several months to expand our all-fiber network in Shelburne and upgrade locations to access Fidium’s multi-gig speed symmetrical service.”

Currently, more than 134,000 Vermont homes and businesses have access to Fidium, including over 15,000 homes and businesses since 2023 in Colchester, Essex, Essex Junction, Milton and Williston. CCCUD is the fourth Communications Union District to partner with Fidium, following successful expansions in Southern Vermont, Otter Creek and Lamoille FiberNet areas.

What will Fidium be installing in Chittenden County
Fiber broadband is a sustainable technology, requiring less power and maintenance than other network types. It is also more resilient to extreme weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for internet service.

The construction process involves installing new fiber optic lines along roads and public utility areas, which may include digging and climbing utility poles. This work could cause temporary traffic detours, noise and dust. Crews will work within public right-of-ways and utility easements, striving to minimize disruption and clean up after themselves.

Click to see the map: Construction set to begin in Shelburne, as Fidium begins access upgrades for Chittenden County

The map shows only new construction associated with Fidium's build associated with the Chittenden County Communications Union District during May 2025. Fidium has expanded to 15,000-plus homes and businesses in Chittenden County in the past two years.

Residents will be kept informed about the progress through mailers, door hangers and construction alerts. Fidium representatives will also visit neighborhoods to provide more information about the construction process.

How can residents find out more about the internet installation
For more information on the fiber internet construction process and to sign up for updates, residents can visit Fidium Fiber. Specific construction questions or concerns can be directed to 1-877-769-4771.

Fidium is a consumer fiber broadband service offering symmetrical multi-gig speeds. Fidium is a brand from Consolidated Communications, a broadband and business communications provider serving consumers, businesses and wireless and wireline carriers across a 20-plus state service area.