Google Fiber signs right‑of‑way license with Kyle; city first in Hays County on I‑35 corridor

Kyle city council on Sept. 3 approved a non‑exclusive right‑of‑way license agreement with Google Fiber Texas LLC that clears the way for the company to design and begin deploying fiber‑optic internet service in the city. Amber Smyth, assistant city manager, said the agreement requires standard permitting, restoration, performance bonds and insurance and includes a 1% gross‑revenue license fee to the city. The term is 20 years with automatic five‑year renewals.

John Michael Cortez, Google Fiber’s head of government and community affairs for Texas, said the company will proceed with detailed engineering and permitting and expects construction segments to begin in 2026; neighborhoods will be activated as their segments are completed. Council members welcomed the investment and said having fiber will increase competition and broadband options for residents and businesses.

Staff said it will return with detailed microtrenching specifications and an update to the code of ordinances to allow microtrenching as a permitted deployment method. The agreement approved at the meeting does not set construction locations but establishes the license and public‑right‑of‑way terms.

Why it matters: High‑capacity fiber can expand consumer and business internet options and competitiveness. Council members framed the deal as expanding choices and potentially lowering prices for Kyle residents and firms.

What’s next: Staff will finalize microtrenching technical requirements with Google and bring ordinance updates for council approval; Google will proceed with engineering and phased deployment.