The first Newport customers will be ready to connect to GoNetspeed’s fiber network on Wednesday, the company will tell the City Council at its meeting that evening.
Heidi Mahoney, GoNetspeed’s manager of government affairs, will brief councilors on the fiber-to-the-premises build, which is advancing in partnership with Rhode Island Commerce through the ConnectRI program. Construction is underway across multiple areas of the city, including both aerial and underground installation, and is targeted for completion in March 2027. Service becomes available incrementally as sections of the network are finished.
The project requires ongoing coordination among GoNetspeed, the city and Rhode Island Energy on municipal permitting, utility pole make-ready work, traffic and construction sequencing.
Residential pricing runs from $39.99 a month for 100 Mbps to $149.99 for 6 gigabit service, with 500 Mbps at $59.99, 1 gig at $69.99 and 3 gig at $107.99. All tiers include a free router and installation.
The company’s presentation also outlines community commitments: free high-speed connections at library buildings, discounts of at least 30% on broadband for schools and municipal buildings, donation of 10 connected devices, free “Cut the Cord” digital literacy classes at local nonprofits, and event sponsorships.
GoNetspeed describes itself as the largest privately owned fiber provider in the Northeast, with more than 750,000 locations passed across 11 states and roughly 100,000 added annually.
The council meets Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 43 Broadway.
