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Irondale council adopts franchise ordinance to allow Lumos Fiber to build fiber network
Summary
The Irondale City Council unanimously approved Ordinance 2025-13 granting Lumos Fiber of Alabama LLC a nonexclusive franchise to install and operate fiber-optic infrastructure in public rights-of-way; company representatives said initial buildout could begin within months and the city required pavement restoration provisions in the agreement.
The Irondale City Council voted to adopt Ordinance 2025-13 on first and immediate passage, granting Lumos Fiber of Alabama LLC a nonexclusive franchise to construct, maintain and operate a fiber-based communications system in the city’s public rights-of-way.
The ordinance was approved after council members voted to suspend rules that would otherwise delay final passage. The roll-call votes recorded during the suspension and adoption included Councilman John London, Councilwoman McQuayor, Councilman Box, Councilman Sims and Council President (on the dais) voting “yes.”
The company representative told the council that Lumos Fiber — which the speaker described as “a joint venture company by T Mobile and private equity” — plans to build fiber-to-the-home service in Irondale. The representative said the company aims to have initial customers connected “in 90 to 120 days,” but added that timing depends on permitting and other factors.
Mayor James D. Stewart Jr. and multiple council members emphasized the city’s interest in protecting recently paved streets. Councilwoman McQuayor asked whether pavement would be restored to its prior condition; the company representative confirmed the franchise agreement requires road restoration where work affects city pavement. McQuayor said she reviewed the agreement and was satisfied with the language protecting the city’s paving investment.
Council members also discussed local telecom competition. The company representative and Mayor Stewart said the presence of a new fiber provider tends to push competitors to cut consumer prices. Council members noted the city already has AT&T and Spectrum service and asked the company to coordinate closely with public works and other departments during construction to avoid damage to roads and utilities.
The council’s ordinance grants a standard city franchise; the company and staff did not present a schedule for neighborhood sequencing in public discussion. Council members encouraged the company to meet with staff and affected residents before construction in specific areas.
The ordinance was adopted at the meeting’s close; the company representative thanked the council and said the company looks forward to beginning work in the city.
