Clearnetworx came on the scene in Norwood after recognizing the critical need for high-speed connectivity options. Strictly operating as an IT company at the time, Clearnetworx stepped in after a number of pivotal local businesses stood on the brink of relocation due to inadequate internet capabilities,
Director of Business Development at Clearnetworx, Casey Irving, recounted the journey. “We decided, as an IT company, we could probably figure it out – so we bought a circuit and brought fiber internet to them. From there, other businesses started asking for it, so we started hooking those up. Eventually we realized residential customers wanted it too and we hooked up some of the first fiber customers in Western Colorado.”
Clearnetworx began working on regional broadband connectivity with San Miguel County, the Town of Norwood, and the Town of Telluride, in 2017/2018.
The endeavor was not without challenges. Establishing government partnerships and securing approval for multiple grants was a multi-year process that led not only to high-speed internet access to Norwood and Telluride with an additional 18 miles of fiber being laid from Nucla to Norwood to include the West End as well.
“Previously, Norwood was served only wirelessly, and most people could only get 1-3 mbps of service,” Casey explained. “Our current plans in Norwood offer service up to 1Gig -1,000 Mbps.”
Today, Clearnetworx serves over 140 fiber customers in Norwood, with an additional 440 throughout the West End. This growth is a narrative of Norwood becoming more connected and, because of progress, being able to be more competitive and versatile in the regional landscape.
“Building a better internet experience” is Clearnetworx’s motto.
“We measure our success in our ability to provide the best experiences.” Casey commented. “Our solutions revolve around the people they serve, while our interactions are about leaving people with a sense of confidence and comfort. We’ll always put people over profits while striving to find creative and reliable solutions.”
We take pride in having a team that’s entirely local to Western Colorado,” Casey continued. “This local presence, combined with our commitment to bringing investment to rural communities, sets us apart as a major employer on the Western Slope,”
Looking ahead, Clearnetworx’s vision includes ultimately building out the Western Slope. “We’re well on our way,” Casey stated, “In the last year, we’ve kicked off buildouts across the state, from Mesa County to La Plata and Montezuma Counties, all while continuing to build to and serve the people of Montrose, Delta, Ouray, and San Miguel Counties.”
As far as the community goes, Clearnetworx intends to continue listening to the needs of the businesses and residents of Norwood and beyond to know how to best serve them and what grants may be necessary to make that possible. “That means providing a superior product at an affordable price all with local support. No more expiring promotions or price hikes and when you need help, you’ll always talk to a real person,” Casey concluded.