Google Fiber sign-ups going strong, report says

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Michael Theis/ABJ

Mark Strama, who's heading up the rollout of Google Fiber in Austin, speaks during a media event in front of a Google Fiber van with livery designed by Austin artist Mike Johnston. The vans will be seen throughout town as Google expands its Fiber network here, set to launch in December.

Michael Theis

Digital Editor- Austin Business Journal

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As Google Fiber launches operations in earnest, company officials told the Austin American-Statesman that more than 30 "fiberhoods" have met sign-up goals to have the ultra-high-speed gigabit Internet service piped in.

Google, which had earlier said it would be giving its service away for free to eligible nonprofits, told the Statesman that a number of nonprofits such as the Zach Theatre just south of downtown and Twin Oaks Library are now slated to get the service.

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Google Fiber, which first announced plans for its gigabit Internet service in 2013, opened up sign-ups to the public Monday. Initially, the service is available to residents, businesses and organizations in South and Southeast Austin. Google officials have said that the service area will be expanded as more infrastructure is built.

Michael Theis is the Austin Business Journal's digital editor.