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SAUGERTIES, N.Y. — Reports of infrastructure disruptions by two fiber optic companies have created some consternation among residents but town officials say the incidents were addressed in a timely fashion and costs to repair the damage are being recovered.

Crews for Archtop Fiber and Planet Networks have been in each other’s shadows during the installation of lines. On Thursday, May 31, spokespersons for the companies provided the Freeman with accounts for complaints stemming from the projects. Archtop Fiber Chief Development Officer Shawn Beqaj said four instances involving damage were dealt with during installation in Barclay Heights during the past two months.



Two involved public infrastructure with a sewer line and a water line struck by crews. Two others involved damage to private property and involved a basketball hoop and the root of a Japanese maple tree. The most severe damage involved the sewer line leading to a business, resulting in repairs costing $12,000.

“Archtop Fiber will stand behind every single instance,” Beqaj said. “In all (of them) we effectuated the repair and paid 100% of the cost.” During a telephone interview, Supervisor Fred Costello agreed that Archtop has been responsive to complaints and has not left the town with any costs for repairs.

He added that providing perfect markings for all lines is nearly impossible, but the company has worked well when there were questions about installation. “Anytime people are working in the ground .

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