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CNI to build Route 30 backbone, says CEO; most fiber to be underground
Summary
CNI representatives said their consortium will lead construction of the Route 30 middle‑mile, emphasizing underground placement where possible, multiple construction zones, and Ohio‑based construction partners; permitting and rockier eastern sections may slow parts of the build.
CNI officials described the company as a consortium of independent telephone companies and said CNI will manage construction along the Route 30 corridor.
"We're looking to deliver this network and serve Ohio and its citizens for whatever is gonna come along," said Aaron Holst, identified in the meeting as CNI's CEO. CNI said it expects much of the route to be buried underground but will use aerial construction where ground conditions (rock, right of way) require it. The company noted the eastern half of the route has rockier geology and will likely proceed more slowly there.
Meeting speakers said Ohio’s construction arm and local contractors could allow multiple work locations to advance simultaneously rather than working strictly east to west. CNI and state partners flagged permitting and final engineering as the next major steps before construction season is lost to weather.
Officials also said that the RFP drew significant interest and that three proposals were reviewed; the selected bidder (named in the procurement) has a signed contract to proceed. No local procurement vote or contract documents were presented during the meeting; reporters present were given a handout and invited to follow up for details.
