OMAHA, Neb. -- Google Fiber appears one step closer to coming to Nebraska's largest city.

In an announcement last month, Google Fiber stated that it was planning on coming to Nebraska, with Omaha expected to be added to the growing number of cities offering its high-speed internet service to residential and small business customers.

The Omaha City Council will consider the license agreement with Google Fiber next month, according to a statement issued Wednesday by Mayor Jean Stothert. The proposed agreement allows the company to install, maintain and operate a fiber optic network in the public right-of-way.

“New and expanding technologies are important to our city’s growth, to attract new residents and new business,” Stothert said.  “Our role is always to help businesses locate and grow in Omaha. Google Fiber is a perfect fit for the growing tech sector of our economy.”

The proposed agreement includes requirements for construction permits, notice to property owners before construction work begins, bonds and insurance. It will be in effect for ten years and then automatically renew thereafter.

“Fast, reliable internet is a necessity for everyone in today’s world,” said Google Fiber representative Rachel Merlo. “We’re excited to start connecting Omaha residents to whatever they need and want to do online.” 

The fiber network is currently in design; construction is expected to begin in 2023, with service available as segments of the network are completed.

In August, Google Fiber announced it would focus expansion on five additional states, including Nebraska.  Omaha will be the company’s 19th market. 

The license agreement will be on the City Council agenda for first reading on October 4.

Google is building a data center near State Street and Blair High Road in Omaha. It is their third data center in the area, with the others located in Papillion and Council Bluffs.