Shentel GLO Fiber Construction Update

Throughout 2024, Harris Township staff worked with Shentel Communications LLC to design a project that would allow the company to install cable utility infrastructure throughout the Township. Where overhead lines exist, Shentel is utilizing existing poles to run their lines; where no overhead lines exist, Shentel must excavate within the street rights-of-way or within other existing easements to install their cables underground along with small above ground accessory structures.

Harris Township started issuing permits to Shentel in November 2024 for the areas that require groundwork. Shentel has been doing that work for about four months. As part of the permitting process, Shentel must permanently restore the areas within Township street rights-of-way that they in any way disturb and they must warrant such work for two years following Township inspection and approval of the restoration. Permanent restoration cannot take place until after winter when grass can grow. Township staff will walk each disturbed area with Shentel representatives when work in those areas is complete and restoration appears to be compliant with Township standards. Staff will also periodically check those areas for the following two years in case any warranty work is required.

If residents should have any questions about the project, they can contact the Township Office by calling 814-466-6228 or they can email at zoning@harristownship.org.