CommScope to increase U.S. fiber optic cable production to connect underserved communities
(UI) – CommScope, a global provider in network connectivity solutions, is expanding fiber-optic cable production to accelerate the rollout of broadband across the U.S., connecting more communities and underserved areas.
CommScope’s expansion of U.S. fiber-optic cable production will increase fiber-optic cable output, hastening the deployment of broadband to underserved communities. The HeliARC lines are expected to support 500,000 homes per year in fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) deployments.
In addition, the expansion will increase employment opportunities with the addition of at least 250 jobs over the next five years, 90% of which will not require a college degree. The plan will also bolster supply chain production in the United States in support of the White House’s initiative to have the supply chain for America begin in America.
Finally, CommScope’s move will introduce a new HeliARC fiber optic cable, specifically designed for the needs of rural deployments and invest $47 million CapEx in the U.S. toward expanding fiber optic cable production focused on rural applications.
“This increase in fiber-optic cable production is a great step forward for our ‘Broadband for Everyone’ program, furthering our commitment to serve the fiber optic cable market,” stated Chuck Treadway, President & CEO, CommScope. “We will produce more cost-effective and easier-to-deploy fiber-optic cable, add new jobs and simultaneously strengthen the supply chain in America.”
“As we’ve seen today, we can produce the materials needed for broadband deployment right here in America. With today’s announcement of a $47 million investment, CommScope is demonstrating its commitment to our once-in-a-generation infrastructure moment,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo.
“CommScope’s expansion of fiber-optic cable production will help even more families get online in North Carolina and across the country,” said North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper.
HeliARC is a smaller and lighter-weight cable allowing for faster installation and lower cost of deployment. Its reduced size and weight also lowers shipping costs, permitting more product to move in one shipment, thereby making it a more sustainable and environmentally friendly product.
Currently, CommScope has two fiber-optic cable production facilities in North Carolina, one in Catawba and the other in Claremont. The increase in production in part results from an expansion of manufacturing at these facilities, where they will add lines of production for HeliARC cable line. This expansion in manufacturing increases American supply chain production resulting in more “Made in America” products.
The announcement was made at an event with the Honorable Secretary Gina Raimondo, U.S. Department of Commerce, Assistant Secretary Alan Davidson, U.S. Department of Commerce, and the Honorable Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina. Also were esteemed members of the community. During the event, CommScope showcased its current facilities in Catawba and Claremont.
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