Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Google Fiber?

Google Fiber is fiber optic-based internet service that delivers connectivity at gigabit speeds (up and down) at a price point lower than other providers. This is at least 2.5 times (or more) faster than current speeds.

Why should I care about Google Fiber?

If you work from home, have children attending school remotely, subscribe to video streaming services (e.g., Netflix, YouTube TV, Hulu, Disney+, etc.), have cell phones, smart home automation and security, or use other internet services such as Dropbox or iCloud, you will benefit from the speed, reliability, and competitive cost of Google Fiber.

Why do we have to vote on whether to allow Google Fiber inside our gates?

Since we are a gated community, we must grant permission to Google to install their fiber lines in our streets. Because this is a utility service that potentially affects all the homeowners in the community, the Board felt it should be a community decision.

How many votes does it take to pass?

Article 4, Section 4.10 of the CCBPOA ByLaws states “…members of the Association shall have one vote for each lot owned in the Subdivision. The vote of members representing at least a majority of the votes cast at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be binding upon all members for all purposes, except when a higher percentage is required by these Bylaws or by law.”

Based on this governing document, a simple majority of the voters present at the annual meeting can vote to pass or reject Google Fiber, presuming a quorum is present. Quorum is 10% of property owners (one vote per lot). There are 130 homes x .10 = 13 property owners to reach quorum.

How will they install the fiber?

Google contractors will use a micro trench technique to dig a small trench next to the curb. The trench will be a few inches from the curb and will be about 1” wide and 6” deep. The trench will “follow the curb” throughout the community. In addition, a small 6”x9” plastic box (called a Coyote box) will be buried in the utility easement between every two houses (similar to the placement of our water meters). For every 50 homes, one 24”x36” vault will be installed in a common area.

Once this installation is complete, each homeowner has the option to contact Google for installation of fiber from the Coyote box to the inside of their home. If the homeowner does not want fiber service, nothing further needs to be done.

Is there any cost to us?

There is no cost to CCBPOA for installation of the fiber backbone in the streets. If a homeowner decides to subscribe to Google Fiber, there is no cost to install the fiber line from the street to the house.

Will the installation damage our streets?

There will be some disruption in the area at the time of the installation, however, the risk of damage is small. Google has been installing fiber in Austin and San Antonio for several years and the process has gone well. They have completed other neighborhoods near us, such as Deerfield and Churchill Estates, so you can easily see how it looks. They will be starting Mission Ridge and Walker Ranch soon.

What if I do not want to subscribe to Google Fiber?

If you do not wish to subscribe to Google Fiber, you do not need to do anything. Google will not bring the fiber line to your house.

If I subscribe to Google Fiber and they damage my landscaping or sprinkler system during the installation, what do I do?

In the event damages occur during installation on your property, contact Google’s fiber support line and file a claim. They will arrange to have the damage repaired, or reimburse you for any out-of-pocket expenses for repairs.

Who maintains the fiber optics once it is installed in the street?

Google is responsible for maintenance and support of the fiber optic lines throughout.

How long is the process?

Google will not begin the process for Canyon Creek Bluffs until the first quarter 2022. They will begin by conducting an engineering survey of our neighborhood to determine where the cable will be laid, placement of vaults, placement of Coyote boxes, etc. This survey will take about four weeks. Once Google is ready to begin, the trenching and laying of cable will take about two weeks.

How deep and wide is the trenching process in the streets? Do they do anything to our property?

The trenching, called micro-trenching, will make a cut about 1” to 1.5” wide and 6” deep. It will be placed about 2” from the curb. Upon completion, the trench will be resealed to City of San Antonio standards. Coyote boxes will be installed in the utility easement between every two houses. This will require a micro cut through the curb and sidewalk. These will be resealed upon completion. Per Google, the sidewalks will be resealed using raised aggregate to match the pre-cut condition.

Our sidewalks are raised aggregate (pebble surface). If they cut into it, will they repair it to the original condition?

According to Google, the sidewalks will be repaired to match the original aggregate.

How much will the service cost per month to subscribe? What about equipment and installation?

Google Fiber service is $70 per month. There is no additional charge for installation or for the fiber box (similar to your cable modem) that they will also install.

What do I get with Google Fiber service? Does it include TV channels?

Google Fiber service provides internet service only. It does not include any TV or movie channels. This is not like cable TV! It is internet only! If you want TV, you will need to subscribe to a live streaming service like YouTube TV or Sling TV.

Will I have to change my email address?

If your email address is through Spectrum, AT&T or other internet service provider and you cancel that service, you will no longer have that email address. You can easily create a free email address using Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, or many others.

My land line telephone is through my cable company. Will I lose my land line?

You will not lose your land line unless you make a change with your cable company. Contact your cable company to see what options you have for your land line if you switch to Google Fiber.