Bergen County officials have announced that Franklin Lakes is now connected to Bergen County Fiber, a high-speed broadband network designed to serve local governments, schools, libraries, and emergency services. The fiber-optic system is publicly owned and aims to provide faster and more reliable internet while reducing long-term telecommunications expenses for taxpayers.
The network was created as a shared service initiative intended to modernize government operations, enhance cybersecurity measures, and improve coordination between municipalities and county agencies. It offers scalable bandwidth and secure data transport for a range of public functions including municipal administration and public safety communications.
County Executive James J. Tedesco, III stated: “Bergen Fiber is the kind of infrastructure that doesn’t always make headlines, but it makes a real difference every single day. Franklin Lakes coming online is another step toward a fully connected county — improving reliability, enhancing security, and delivering long-term value for taxpayers.”
Franklin Lakes Mayor Charles Kahwaty commented on the partnership: “Joining Bergen Fiber strengthens the reliability of our municipal operations while delivering meaningful long-term savings for our taxpayers. This partnership with the County gives Franklin Lakes a more dependable and cost-effective network to support the services our residents rely on every day.”
Commissioner Tracy Silna Zur added: “Bergen Fiber represents smart, forward-looking government. By creating a countywide network, we are strengthening communication between municipalities and County agencies while controlling costs and improving service delivery. Franklin Lakes coming online is another important milestone in building a more connected Bergen County.”
The Bergen Fiber Network currently connects multiple facilities across Bergen County such as borough halls, libraries, and utilities authorities. The expansion continues as additional towns choose to participate in this shared service.
For those seeking further information or interested in joining the network, contact can be made via BOReilly@BergenCountyNJ.gov.
