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Columbia Association to Use Broadband to Benefit Residents, Executive Ulman Announces(Targeted News Service Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) ELLICOTT CITY, Md., Oct. 20 -- Howard County issued the following news release: Howard County Executive Ken Ulman and Columbia Association (CA) President and CEO Milton Matthews announced today that six CA facilities will soon begin using the Inter-County Broadband Network (ICBN), to provide faster online speed and lower cost for Columbia residents. "By utilizing the robust bandwidth provided by the ICBN, CA will see cost savings coupled with a better user experience for staff and clients," said County Executive Ulman. "Better broadband connectivity will give CA the capacity it needs to create innovative uses for their technology-based, integrated fitness equipment. This is one more step on our mission to make us the most wired county in the most wired state in the nation." Once construction is complete, the ICBN will power internet services at the Columbia Association headquarters and its maintenance facility on Gerwig Lane. ICBN will also fuel four health and fitness centers: Columbia Gym, Columbia Athletic Club, Supreme Sports Club and Haven on the Lake. "ICBN gives us more opportunities for customer service and outreach to our members and others in the community," said CA President Milton Matthews. "We're already modifying our website and this is a great resource for us." CA will pay $10,000 a month less for ICBN service, compared with the price estimate for 100 Mbps service from CA's current commercial provider. Once in place, ICBN connection will produce an annual savings of nearly $129,000 compared to the current provider's estimate. "It is important that we partner and save money for government and for Columbia Association," said Howard County Council Vice Chairperson Courtney Watson. "But I know the one thing everyone who uses the gyms is excited about is the improved WiFi access. It'll be easier for them to use their smart phones and tablets and computers while they're here." The One Maryland: ICBN project combined $115 million in federal funds with $45 million in state and local resources to lay more than 1,000 miles of fiber optic cable in every county in the state, directly connecting more than 1,000 schools, libraries, fire and police stations, community colleges and other community anchor institutions. Fiber not dedicated for government use is available for leasing by private companies. Howard County is already using the ICBN to integrate its two 9-1-1 centers and to provide telemedicine services at five Howard County public elementary schools. Howard County Government is also using the ICBN for internet and telephone service in 29 county-owned buildings, saving taxpayers $440,000 a year. For more information about the ICBN, go to www.mdbroadband.com. CC AutoTriage9as-141021-30FurigayJane-4906393 30FurigayJane (c) 2014 Targeted News Service |