We Help Deliver Next-Generation, Future-Proof Fiber Network in Chicago
Innovative design, efficient permitting, and streamlined processes ensure customer promises are kept.
SITUATION
Crosstown Fiber is revolutionizing digital infrastructure in Chicago with a future-proof underground fiber network. Designed for unmatched speed, reliability, and adaptability, this state-of-the-art network sets new standards for performance while paving the way for future technological advancements.
As a growing telecom provider in a highly competitive and regulated market, Crosstown needed a trusted engineering partner to ensure its ambitious network expansion met both customer expectations, regulatory requirements, and ROI targets. Talman Consultants was engaged to design and permit underground fiber, connecting critical public infrastructure and data centers in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.
CHALLENGE
Crosstown’s mission is to provide a superior fiber network capable of meeting the complex and evolving needs of diverse customers—from healthcare to fintech to educational institutions. However, delivering on this promise required navigating several challenges:
Regulatory Complexity
The network design required approval from a broad and diverse group of stakeholders—municipalities, counties, federal, airport, DOTs, Army Corps, environments, and railroads—each with unique standards and processes.
Project Scale and Precision
Long, intricate underground routes with strategic redundancies required meticulous planning to ensure performance, cost-efficiency, and construction feasibility.
Dynamic Conditions
The market and permitting landscape are ever-changing, demanding a design and planning process that could adapt seamlessly.
SOLUTION
To meet these challenges, Talman leveraged its proprietary planning process, RAMP™, to deliver results.
Optimized Network Design
Talman created designs that prioritized performance and scalability while considering construction feasibility and cost efficiency. These designs enabled Crosstown to meet its promise of speed and reliability to its customers.
Streamlined Permitting
Talman’s expertise ensured designs were tailored to facilitate quick approvals from multiple regulatory entities, reducing delays and ensuring alignment with stakeholder expectations.
Adaptable Planning
RAMP™’s continuous planning feature enabled real-time updates, keeping designs aligned with evolving project requirements and minimizing disruptions.
The result was an efficient, scalable network design that not only delivered on Crosstown’s goals but also helped position the company as a leader in cutting-edge digital infrastructure. By managing costs, timelines, and compliance, Talman empowered Crosstown to fulfill its promise of a next-generation fiber network for Chicago and its surrounding communities.