Quantum Bridge brings Optical Access to Butler Co., Ohio

ANDOVER, Mass., Nov. 14 -- Quantum Bridge Communications Inc. has been chosen to supply the optical networking equipment for a high-speed fiber optic network connecting businesses and government offices within Ohio's Butler County.

The project is being designed, built and operated by NORMAP Telecommunications LLC, wholly owned by SFT LLC, in Toledo, Ohio. It is intended to stimulate economic development in the area.

The network will include a 96-strand fiber backbone linking the cities of Hamilton, Middletown, Fairfield and West Chester. A secondary 24-strand fiber loop will follow Ohio State Route 4 connecting Hamilton and Middletown. Under the partnership agreement, NORMAP will dedicate 24 fibers to the county within the main backbone, 12 of which will be dedicated to Miami University through a lease agreement with the county, to link its Oxford, Hamilton and Middletown campuses.

Cincinnati Bell, a division of Broadwing, has been selected to install the fiber plant. The project is scheduled for completion in 2002.