Fiber optic network now up and running in Roanoke Valley

The Roanoke Valley Broadband Authority officially lit up its fiber network Tuesday.

In a ribbon cutting ceremony, the broadband authority invited everyone involved including representatives from Roanoke, Salem, Roanoke County, and Botetourt County.

The Fiber Optic network is now up and running.

Blue Ridge PBS is the Broadband Authority's first customer.

President and CEO James Baum says the fiber network is essential for the future.

"It's as important as railroads, it's as important as highway, it's as important as gas lines, water lines, electrical lines. This is just part of the infrastructure that's required to do businesses to today."

Blue Ridge PBS will also serve as one of five switching centers.

The other four are spread out throughout the Roanoke Valley.