Fiber

Why Fiber Construction Is Happening

Albuquerque is seeing a significant expansion of high-speed fiber internet infrastructure—bringing meaningful benefits to residents and businesses across the city. While the City of Albuquerque is not directly providing internet service, these private construction efforts are helping to improve connectivity and digital access in our communities.

Reliable, high-speed internet supports a wide range of important needs, including remote work, online education, small business growth, telehealth access, and the use of modern public services. It also plays a vital role in driving long-term economic development and helping residents stay connected in an increasingly digital world.

Fiber installation involves accessing underground utility pathways, often in the public right-of-way (ROW) the area between the sidewalk and the street, which is legally designated for utility use.

What You Might See on Your Street

You may notice:
  • Construction crews digging or boring underground
  • Utility flags or paint markings in your yard or sidewalk area
  • Temporary closures or detours on sidewalks or streets
  • Equipment, trucks, and safety barriers along the curb
These activities are common and necessary for fiber installation. Crews are working within their legal right-of-way access and following state safety and dig laws.

Understanding Fiber Construction in Your Neighborhood

Who Does What? Understanding the Roles

NM811

The Notification Hub
New Mexico 811 (NM811) is not a utility or a construction company. NM811’s role is to:
  • Receive dig notices from contractors, utility companies, and the public
  • Notify underground facility owners (UFOs) about where work will happen
  • Track damage reports to underground utility infrastructure
  • Offer a Positive Response registry system to track whether lines have been marked
NM811 does not do the digging or marking. We simply coordinate communication so that excavation is done safely and legally.

Excavators & Contractors

The Installers

Fiber installation crews are hired by broadband companies to perform the physical work in your neighborhood. These licensed contractors are responsible for:
  • Submitting locate requests through NM811 before digging
  • Following state and federal safety regulations for excavation
  • Installing fiber lines within public right-of-way areas
  • Coordinating with utility companies to avoid underground damage
  • Restoring work areas to a clean and safe condition
While they are not city employees, their work is legally permitted and regulated. Their goal is to complete fiber installation efficiently and respectfully in your community.

Utility Companies

The Locators

Utility providers (gas, water, electric, fiber, etc.) are responsible for:
  • Responding to 811 notices
  • Marking their underground lines within 2 working days
  • Maintaining and repairing their infrastructure
Each utility works within legal requirements for their industry and follows industry best practices for excavation safety.

Pipeline Safety Bureau

The Enforcer

The Pipeline Safety Bureau (PSB) is part of the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission. They oversee enforcement of the state’s Excavation Law, including:
  • Investigating failures to mark lines
  • Assessing fines for non-compliance
  • Responding to reports of damage or unsafe practices
They ensure safety and accountability in all utility excavation work across New Mexico.

Helpful Resources

High Speed Fiber Internet Expansion — City of Albuquerque

Homeowners - NM 811

Getting Connected to Broadband | Federal Communications Commission

Tips to Stay Informed and Safe

  • Do not remove or alter utility markings, it is illegal and can cause serious risk to those working.
  • Do not confront crews—reach out to contacts provided on signage or door notices.
  • Take photos of your yard before and after for personal records.
  • Reach out to the contacts on your door notice if restoration doesn't occur after 10 business days from completion.

Understanding the Color Codes

White

Proposed Excavation

Pink

Temporary Survey Markings

Red

Electric Power Lines, Cables, Conduit, & Lighting Cables

Yellow

Gas, Oil, Steam, Petroleum, & Gaseous Materials

Orange

Communication, Alarm/Signal Lines, Cables, or Conduit

Blue

Potable Water

Purple

Reclaimed Water, Irrigation, & Slurry Lines

Green

Sewers & Drain Lines

FAQs – What Homeowners Want to Know

Always Call Before You Dig!

Call 811 or 1-800-321-2537 at least two business days before you dig. It's FAST. It's FREE. It's the LAW!