Rep. Sena, Sen. Eldridge, and Rep. Cataldo Announce $250,000 Grant to Build Town-Owned Municipal Fiber Network in Acton
The Healey-Driscoll administration’s Community Compact Cabinet awards support fiber network development across Massachusetts.
ACTON – 9/2/2026 - Rep. Danillo Sena (D-Acton), Sen. Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough), and Rep. Simon Cataldo (D-Concord) are proud to announce that the Community Compact Program has awarded $250,000 to the town of Acton for the purpose of creating a fiber network that is town-owned-and-operated.
The municipal-based fiber network will help alleviate internet security concerns for the town, protecting schools, residents, and local infrastructure while promoting faster and more efficient disaster recovery and emergency services. In an internet-dependent world, providing reliable service to town governments supports smooth communication and transaction in local public services and businesses. With this new network in Acton, the town government’s internet issues can be more quickly diagnosed and resolved by town operators.
Currently, businesses and public buildings operating in Acton run on an older service that is costly and has long repair times. In early April, five utility poles were taken down by a falling tree and restoration service was not completed until four weeks after the incident. Under a town owned-and-operated system, the anticipated repair time is within 24 hours, and will be conducted through locally based vendors.
“I am very happy to see this money come to Acton to strengthen the municipal network,” said State Representative Danillo Sena. “I think it’s important for all municipalities to modernize and improve their internet infrastructure. This will save the town time, money, and improve public safety by ensuring that our first responders can communicate properly during emergencies. I would like to thank Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll for their leadership in making these funds available."
“In an increasingly internet-native age, it is important that we invest in infrastructure that supports our digital needs,” said State Senator Jamie Eldridge. “I look forward to seeing the ways in which this fiber network will enable the town government to better operate and connect online. Faster and more reliable internet connection will only continue to strengthen the way our municipalities work together, and I’m proud to say that this grant will play a large part in making that a reality.”
“I’m grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for making this important investment in Acton,” said State Representative Simon Cataldo. “The municipal fiber network will make Acton’s essential town services more reliable and resilient. I’m proud to join Representative Sena and Senator Eldridge in supporting the town as it takes this important step forward.”
Measures to build this new fiber-optic network are expected to conclude by late 2027. The first projected steps are to map facilities for the new infrastructure, with a focus on critical facilities and locations with difficult access. Initial expenses will include updating existing public safety communication paths, with the potential to add more.
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