ErieNet, LDC Announces Major Progress at 2026 Annual Meeting

NEWS RELEASE

March 24, 2025: Link to PDF

CONTACT: Courtney Italia, Administrative Manager - Courtney.Italia@erienet.com

Buffalo, NY — ErieNet Local Development Corporation held its 2026 Annual Meeting on Tuesday, March 24, where Executive Director Melissa Hartman delivered a comprehensive update on the nearly 400-mile countywide fiber network. Hartman highlighted substantial construction progress and ongoing efforts to expand municipal and provider partnerships.

During the meeting, ErieNet announced a finalized partnership agreement with the City of Buffalo. Several additional municipalities are currently engaged in active negotiations to join the network initiative. Multiple Internet Service Providers are also reviewing proposed agreements, with formal announcements anticipated later this year.

Construction remains on schedule for substantial completion by the end of 2026. Portions of the network are expected to come online beginning in late summer or early fall, marking a major milestone for the county’s digital infrastructure strategy.

The event also recognized ErieNet’s recent $5,088,000 grant award from the NYS ConnectAll Office, which will help support fiber deployment for the City of Buffalo, Erie County Sheriff facilities, and municipal sites in the City of Lackawanna.

“We are very pleased with the momentum of the network build,” said Executive Director Melissa Hartman. “After earlier delays related to utility coordination and permitting, we are now seeing consistent fiber installation across Erie County—bringing us closer to delivering reliable, affordable connectivity for all."

About ErieNet, LDC

ErieNet Local Development Corporation is a public benefit corporation dedicated to building a resilient, open-access fiber network that supports economic development, enhances digital equity, and expands access to reliable, affordable broadband across Erie County.