CONNECTICUT — The state public utility regulator fined Frontier Communications $5 million and ordered it to cease underground fiber optic cable installations after it alleged the company recklessly caused damage to other underground utilities.

The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority alleged that Frontier was, " …using inappropriate design and construction standards and specifications, which has resulted, and will continue to result, in damage to underground natural gas and electric distribution facilities."

A contractor working for Frontier damaged a gas line on Hull Street in Ansonia in May 2021. Damage to utilities also occurred in Enfield, Middletown, Wallingford, Meriden, Waterford and Stratford during installations, according to PURA.

Connecticut Natural Gas also requested excavation of work in Wethersfield on July 14, 2022, after workers noticed gas lines hadn't been exposed during Frontier's installation. CNG workers found that Frontier contractors placed fiber optic line in PVC pipes to simulate the use of existing conduit and to conceal an improper trenchless excavation.

"PURA has reason to believe that this installation method may have been used in hundreds of crossings," PURA Chairman Marissa Gillett wrote in the notice to Frontier.

PURA ordered Frontier to cease all underground fiber optic cable installation, except for emergency repairs. Frontier will also have to submit an oversight plan, which must be approved by PURA.

Frontier can request a hearing to appeal the fine and cease and desist order. The company said in a statement that it is working with its contractors and PURA to fix any issues, according to the Journal Inquirer.

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