Fiber Optic Network Public Private Partnership

The City of Pasadena is requesting information on private assets, existing markets, capabilities, investment options, and qualifications from Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to begin determining options and alternatives for a public-private partnership that could utilize the City’s existing conduit, fiber cable, and utility pole infrastructure.

The City’s goal is to capitalize on its extensive underground, aerial, and vertical infrastructure to support its vision of ubiquitous fiber services for residents and businesses, improve municipal operations, and establish Pasadena as a leader in community connectivity.

Pasadena manages an extensive network of infrastructure that supports these efforts. Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) maintains the City’s electric grid, conduit system, and utility poles. The Department of Information Technology (DoIT) oversees the municipal fiber network that connects City facilities and supports future broadband expansion. Combined, these assets include approximately 1,570 miles of underground conduit, 8,150 utility poles, and 171 miles of fiber cable, providing a strong foundation for expanding broadband connectivity citywide.

Through this RFI, the City is seeking to understand the private telecom infrastructure within the Pasadena area, the qualifications of those owners/operators, evaluate what private assets and infrastructure can be leveraged to avoid overbuild, and to initiate realistic discussions with ISPs about the benefits, challenges, and requirements to ensure success.