Council approves nonexclusive franchise with Forged Fiber to expand broadband options
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Summary
Newcastle City Council unanimously approved ordinance 2025-679 granting a nonexclusive telecommunications franchise to Forged Fiber 37 LLC to take over existing AT&T infrastructure, a move councilors said could increase local broadband competition.
The Newcastle City Council on Dec. 2 approved ordinance 2025-679 granting a nonexclusive telecommunications franchise to Forged Fiber 37 LLC.
Staff said Forged Fiber would take over AT&T infrastructure in the city and would not immediately expand the network footprint; the agreement is primarily a transfer of franchise responsibilities and includes a one-time administrative fee rather than an ongoing franchise fee. Council members welcomed the potential for additional providers and competition. One council member said: "I just I think it's really great that I know folks have come to me with this concern a lot if there's only 1 Internet provider. This is we've been working to change this really rapidly." The council moved, seconded and adopted the ordinance by roll call, 7-0.
Next steps: staff will finalize the franchise documents and notify residents as appropriate about the new provider.
