Lightpath Strengthens Columbus AI Infrastructure with Major Network Expansion Award

Lightpath's Expanding Network in Columbus

In a significant advancement for technology infrastructure in the Greater Columbus area, Lightpath has announced that it has secured its third major network award, marking a pivotal moment in the expansion of AI-ready connectivity across the region. This announcement comes as a response to the escalating demand for high-capacity fiber networks that can adequately support production-grade artificial intelligence and data center workloads.

Currently, Lightpath is in the process of constructing an extensive network that stretches out an impressive 304 route miles. This expansion includes an additional 55 miles of a sophisticated, fully underground multi-conduit network extending southwest from Columbus towards Cincinnati. This development is not just a testament to Lightpath's growth but also highlights Columbus's emerging role as a prime market for hyperscale computing customers who are intensively focusing on building reliable and high-performance infrastructure to facilitate their operations.

The latest round of construction is expected to unfold in several phases, with approximately one-third of the announced build, equivalent to 102 route miles, slated for completion by the end of the first half of 2026. This timeline represents a remarkable acceleration of the delivery schedule compared to previous projections. The remaining sections of the network are anticipated to be operational by the first half of 2027.

Chris Morley, the CEO of Lightpath, expressed the importance of this award in reflecting the growing consistency of demand among hyperscale clients as they continue to expand their AI infrastructure. He emphasized, “Our focus remains on executing reliably and building infrastructure that supports long-term, mission-critical workloads.”

This latest expansion effort is integral to refining interconnectivity both within Central Ohio and extending towards Southwest Ohio. The project is designed to enhance the fiber corridor that aims to bolster metro and intercity data center connections throughout this developing tech hub.

Tim Haverkate, Lightpath's Executive Vice President of Major Infrastructure, commented on the operational discipline that has enabled the construction to proceed ahead of schedule, stating, “This phased expansion positions us to support continued growth in Columbus while maintaining the performance and reliability our customers expect.”

This ongoing initiative is part of a larger strategic approach taken by Lightpath, which is focused on creating dense, all-fiber infrastructure across key U.S. markets. The intent behind this deployment strategy is to ensure that hyperscale, carrier, and enterprise customers can access scalable and production-ready connectivity that is crucial in today’s digital landscape.

For further information on Lightpath, visit their official website at lightpathfiber.com or follow them on LinkedIn for the latest updates. Lightpath is committed to transforming how customers connect with their digital needs, combining an advanced fiber-optic network with tailored customer service solutions that address unique connectivity challenges.

For over three decades, Lightpath has been a trusted partner for numerous enterprises, governmental agencies, and educational institutions, consistently empowering them with robust connectivity options to drive innovation and progress. This surge in network expansion symbolizes not just a corporate achievement, but a significant step in enhancing the technological backbone of the Columbus area, paving the way for increased investment and development in the AI sector.