Setback for Lumos Fiber in Irmo as Utility Damage Causes Work Halt

Setback for Lumos Fiber in Irmo as Utility Damage Causes Work Halt

Irmo, SC – Residents in the Murraywood neighborhood of Irmo are facing unexpected inconveniences this week, as a fiber optic company has been asked to halt its work following significant utility damage. Lumos Fiber, the North Carolina-based company attempting to expand high-speed internet access in the Midlands, has found itself in a bit of a pickle after a water line strike disrupted service for several households.

What Happened?

On Wednesday, a mishap occurred when Lumos crews inadvertently struck a water line on Willow Bend Court. This unfortunate incident led to water gushing down the roadway, causing a temporary loss of service for those living in the vicinity. Clint Shealy from Columbia Water noted that the situation was serious enough to necessitate cutting off water service to the area for several hours while crews assessed the damage.

“We’re going to have to create a sinkhole,” Shealy mentioned, alluding to the steps needed to access the damaged pipe, although it was uncertain at that moment if a sinkhole had formed already.

A Quick Response

In response to the calamity, the Lexington County Public Works Department swiftly sent an email to Lumos on Friday, instructing them to stop work immediately in the Murraywood area. The email stated, “It is of the best interest to cease work immediately in Lexington County due to the damages done in Murraywood Subdivision.” To continue operations, Lumos will need to devise a Corrective Action Plan that must be approved by the Lexington County Public Works before any further work can commence.

A Series of Setbacks

This incident marks yet another challenge for Lumos as they try to roll out their high-speed fiber optic network in the Midlands. Last year, Lumos faced criticism when its teams caused numerous gas leaks, which temporarily evacuated residents from Elmwood Park. Even after being allowed to resume work, they encountered further issues, including striking water mains across areas in Columbia over the summer.

Despite the setbacks, Lumos remains persistent. Last fall, the company obtained the necessary franchise agreements with local municipalities including Columbia, West Columbia, and Irmo, allowing them to lay down approximately 1,200 miles of fiber-optic cable throughout Richland and Lexington counties. Just last week, Lumos began work in Irmo as part of its ambitious plan that aims to not only improve internet access but also implement WiFi in local parks.

What’s Next?

Residents and supporters of the fiber optic project are left wondering how long it will take for Lumos to come up with a corrective action plan. A county spokesperson indicated that no deadline had been set for this plan’s submission or approval from Public Works, leaving many in a state of uncertainty about when work may resume.

As of now, there has been no response from Lumos regarding the incidents, so for those following this story, patience appears to be key. The clarity on when high-speed internet will be available in these areas still hangs in the balance, and all eyes will be on Lumos as they navigate through these challenges.

In Summary

The residents of the Murraywood neighborhood, along with many others in Irmo, hope that Lumos Fiber can swiftly resolve these utility issues. The end goal remains a commendable one—broadening high-speed internet access to enhance community connectivity. Here’s to hoping that Lumos can bounce back from this hiccup and get back to work soon!