The push for FIOS is on again in Buffalo, with activists pushing the Public Service Commission to order Verizon to install the high-speed internet cabling in the city.
It's in a few tiny areas not offering cable TV service, although that is offered in a few small areas in the suburbs. In the past, Verizon has said it was years away from a decision on moving into the city.
Coalition for Economic Justice Executive Director Kirk Laubenstein says that isn't fair to city residents.
"This digital divide systematically prevents large numbers of minority and working class people from gaining access to technology that has the potential to create jobs and enhance educational opportunity here in the city," Laubenstein said.
"High-speed internet is critical infrastructure of the 21st Century. And unfortunately, Verizon said we'll leave you in the cold."
Labor leaders say installing the optical fiber system across the city would keep bills low enough more people could afford the service.
Large numbers of public school students don't have web service at home, with some packing city libraries to get internet accessibility for their school work.
