After a year of campaigning we finally did it!

Last week, the District of Columbia and Verizon reached an agreement that will bring FiOS to the nation's capital, possibly as early as January 2009.

Thank you to everyone who testified at the quality of service hearings, came out to Connect-DC rallies and events, and sent letters to city representatives. Without your support and participation, this victory would not have been possible.

But as with most victories, this is just the beginning.

FiOS deployment in Maryland and Virginia has been far from hassle-free. Last year Verizon subcontracted the installation work to companies who hired low-income day laborers and did not pay them for their work.

Make sure that such labor violations do not occur in DC, and that Verizon commits to training and hiring DC residents to do this important work.

The agreement between the City and Verizon will soon go before Mayor Adrian Fenty for approval. Let the Mayor's office know that high quality, equitable, telecommunication services and good jobs matter to you, by emailing them today!

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

For the last year I have campaigned to bring FiOS to the District and am delighted that the City and Verizon have finally come to an agreement. FiOS deployment offers a one-time opportunity for the City and its residents. Never before has Verizon invested so many resources into its network, and I trust that you will work to maximize the benefits for DC workers and consumers.

In particular, I hope the agreement will contain stipulations to ensure that Verizon:

- Take responsibility for ensuring that the work to install FiOS is done in a way that respects our communities and our workers;

- Build FiOs throughout the District.

- Employ DC residents in DC facilities to build FiOS and sustain existing infrastructure.

In addition, I hope to see a commitment from Verizon to maintain its copper telephone network. Not all DC residents will be able to afford Verizon?s FiOS Triple Play package but the City has the responsibility to ensure that as DC's economy develops, working families benefit too.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
August 12, 2008