Google network in GR? Meeting discusses

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - A meeting was held Tuesday at Urban Mill Coffee House to discuss the Google Fiber Optics network, and how residents can help bring it to Grand Rapids.

The event was co-hosted by the Grand Rapids Technology Partnership, technological authority Ashima Saigal and community organizing specialist Rachel Lee.

Restaurant owner Tommy Fitzgerald said a super high-speed Internet connection would be a welcome addition to his business.

"I don't think the issue is, I get to download my friend's picture from Aspen faster," he told 24 Hour News 8. "I don't think that's it. What we're looking to do here is make things more efficient and in this economic time, if I can get that as a bonus with Google coming into Grand Rapids, I could tell you, I'd be pleased as punch."

Organizers at the meeting said they plan to announce more events in the next few weeks to promote the project.

Ann Arbor, Lansing, Holland and Kalamazoo have also thrown their hats into the digital ring.

Watch the video for more information.

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Grand Rapids is applying to be a test market for the experimental Internet service, which promises speeds 100 times greater than what most Americans have access to today.

The ultra-fast service would benefit consumers, schools, government and business, including Grand Rapids' growing medical and life sciences sector.

Google is looking for demographics and other information about the city, including details such as what company controls utility poles.

A Facebook page dubbed "Google Fiber for Grand Rapids" has nearly 14,000 fans.

Douglas Lang of the recently founded Grand Rapids Technology Partnership wants residents to bolster the city's application by going to the project's Web site, clicking 'get involved' and nominating Grand Rapids.

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On the Web:

Grand Rapids Technology Partnership
Google Fiber for Grand Rapids Facebook page
In the 616