Lexington Electric System has meticulously built and maintained a reliable electric system over 84 years of hard work and dedication. To ensure our system continues to operate at peak performance, we’ve shifted our focus to “smart grid” technology, which gives us the ability to tie our communications and other grid assets together. In addition to improving our electric operations, this leap in technology allows us to deliver affordable internet to you, our customers. We’re bringing you the fastest, most affordable internet speeds available through LexNet powered by LES.
This is an exciting development, but before it gets to you, we’ll have to do some work. If you sign up for LexNet service, it will be installed in the same way as your LES service. If your LES service comes in the air from a pole, so will your LexNet. If your home or neighborhood is fed underground, then your LexNet will be as well. Generally, overhead service is straightforward and can be accomplished with minimal disruption. Underground service is a bit more involved. Overall, know that our goal is to minimize disruptions while we pave the way for your seamless internet experience.
Underground fiber construction aims to be as unobtrusive as possible. Contractors typically work in existing utility easements, and we follow neighborhood-specific construction plans. During construction, we may impact greenspaces and yards temporarily, but our commitment is to restore them to their original state.
Prior to construction, we contact 811 and have utility locates done. That means the various other utility companies—such as natural gas, water, and phone—mark where their lines run. They’ll mark these lines with spray paint, small flags, or both. As we’ve discovered, sometimes those marks are incorrect, or water or sewage lines that were installed by a homeowner or builder are not marked. That means we could cut into an existing line. Main lines are usually the responsibility of the utility that owns them to repair if the locate was incorrect, but if it is our fault, we will repair the damage.
We will install conduit (orange plastic piping that protects the fiber optic cable) through one of two methods: trenching (where we open a small ditch), or boring (where a drill-like instrument is used to make an underground tunnel). We will also install boxes called vaults. These vaults are used to protect and provide access to fiber for splicing and other maintenance. Most of these vaults will be flush with the ground when complete.
The future is here, and we're bringing LexNet's broadband internet service to your neighborhood, offering fast, affordable, and reliable internet. Whether your electric service comes from the air or underground, we're committed to making this transition as smooth as possible. Get ready to experience the power of LexNet fiber!
