PROVO — The digital utopia envisioned by the city's energy department is one step closer to reality — despite opposition from critics.
At issue is a plan to provide Provo's 32,000 homes and businesses with a fiber-optic network. Those who pay for the service would get high-speed Internet access, cable TV and video conference capabilities.
Officials estimate the cost of installing the fiber- optic wiring at $39.5 million.
On Tuesday, members of Provo's City Council asked residents to speak their piece about the proposal, which has been dubbed iProvo.
After hearing some opinions from residents, council members decided to seek more information on what it would take to pay for the project. They also resolved to make a decision on whether to pursue financing for iProvo by Jan. 20.
Mayor Lewis Billings said it would be "dangerous" for the city to halt iProvo, saying it would stunt the city's economic and social growth if the plan did not proceed as planned.
"This is something that has been carefully thought out," Billings said. "We believe it will create jobs. We believe it will create a quality of life that we never thought of before."
Proponents of the plan say iProvo will bring opportunities for education and entertainment.
Several self-employed residents spoke to the council. They said iProvo will allow an increase in telecommuting, home-based businesses and services for the disabled.
"This has been the most trouble-free Internet service we have ever had," said resident Daylene Rowley. Rowley's home was one of some 300 connected to a test service.
"Citywide fiber optics is the wave of the future. Why not ride the wave?"
Opponents of the project said the plan is impractical and would place the city in debt for only those residents who can afford the services. They say this will cause a deepening of what they call a "digital divide."
"Debt acquired for the purpose of luxury is foolish," said resident Jeremiah Maughan.
Critics also say the technology would become obsolete quickly and could be overshadowed by wireless services.
"Do we really know what we're getting in to?" said resident Theron Harmon. "A lot could change . . . Are the benefits to the citizens worth the extra risk?"
Harmon said officials have not allowed adequate public debate on the plan and said approval of iProvo should be decided by a general election.
Billings disagreed, saying the city has researched and discussed the plan for more than three years. "To somehow discuss this hasn't been discussed enough is something I take issue with," Billings said.
Three meetings to discuss iProvo will be held in January. The meetings will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Jan. 6 at Centennial Middle School; Jan. 8 at Dixon Middle School, and Jan. 14 at Farrer Middle School.
Information about iProvo can be found on the Web at www.iprovo.net.
E-mail: csheffield@desnews.com