Submitted by OPALCO

OPALCO’s wholly owned subsidiary, Rock Island Communications, announced this week that it will deliver fiber-optic internet to approximately 35 percent of the Town of Friday Harbor with no installation fee.

“Dozens of businesses in Friday Harbor now have a chance to hook up to fiber,” said Foster Hildreth, general manager of Rock Island and OPALCO. “We asked our co-op members to help us grow our subsidiary by signing up for Rock Island’s internet services – and you really came through: almost 5,000 subscribers to date! Our system is built out to the point that we can guarantee long-term, high-speed internet services at great prices in the town of Friday Harbor and other village centers.”

After nearly four years of building its fiber network throughout the county, Rock Island is now offering to distribute fiber-optic internet services to a significant number of homes, apartment buildings and businesses in Friday Harbor with no installation cost, a fee that averages about $3,500 per parcel.

“Rock Island fiber gets you the best connection in the county and is a local partner who will stand by you every step of the way,” said Alan Smith, Executive Vice President of Rock Island. “You can now also grow your local business network with the launch of Rock Island Business Services.”

Rock Island expanded their line of business-focused products and services in 2018. Products and services are tailored for the specific needs of each business. Network support, guest services support and a well-qualified professional IT and network team are available with 24-hour support.

“Businesses have different needs than a residential customer,” said Dan Burke, senior vice president of onboarding and support. “We take the worry out of your technology services and provide business support at affordable prices. We’re a local partner who will pick up the phone when you call, night or day.”

Learn more about getting connected to Rock Island’s fiber in the town of Friday Harbor online at rockisland.com/fridayharbor.

Orcas Power & Light Cooperative, or OPALCO, is the member-owned cooperative electric utility, serving more than 11,000 members on 20 islands in San Juan County. OPALCO provides electricity that is 95 percent greenhouse-gas free and is generated predominantly by hydroelectric plants. OPALCO was founded in 1937. Follow OPALCO @OrcasPower on Facebook and Twitter.