360networks positions itself for broadband stimulus funding

SEATTLE, Aug. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- 360networks (USA) inc. announced today that it has filed its application for federal stimulus funding to expand broadband access to rural and underserved markets. 360networks is one of the country's leading fiber based telecom providers, operating a 17,200 mile fiber network in the western United States. 360 has presented an opportunity that would open access to numerous underserved populations by creating rural points of presence (or "POPs"), at amplifier and regeneration sites along the Company's fiber optic backbone. Many of these sites are centered in underserved markets where economic returns have not enabled access to date.

360network's proposed "middle-mile" project will access seventeen rural markets and a surrounding ten-mile radius along its existing 1,011 mile fiber optic route extending from Chicago, Illinois to New Orleans, Louisiana. This route is diverse to most national fiber backbones thus creating a cost effective alternative for broadband providers from most existing backhaul solutions. 360networks has been working with last-mile service providers over the past six months to deliver a package that not only offers connectivity to the nation's fiber backbone but turnkey product solutions for last-mile providers including local cable companies, local exchange companies, and wireless providers. The connectivity and products offered by 360networks will allow last-mile providers to better support broadband requirements of the consumers, businesses and government agencies in these underserved markets...