The city of Joplin is working with ALLO Fiber to expand the Wi-Fi capability in the Greater Joplin area. The first build is expected to go live by the end of the year. ‘
ALLO started construction in Nov. 2024 and is making steady progress. The city put out a request earlier in 2024 for fiber network proposals. The company realized Joplin’s Wi-Fi needs fit perfectly with their capabilities of consistent Wi-Fi connection
ALLO is currently building a conduit - which is a tube or trough to protect electric wiring. They've encountered some construction delays with Missouri's rocky terrain but are still on track to finish the project by the end of this year and beginning in 2026.
There are three types of Wi-Fi cables – Coaxial, Twister pair, and fiber optic cables. ALLO uses fiber optic cables, which are ideal for fast internet connections.
According to ALLO's Plan Operations Manager Brandon Warren, it's a lot more reliable than other Wi-Fi cable connections.
"The Wi-Fi is very symmetrical where a lot of times copper-based isn't. That's where your speed goes down. So, ours would stay there consistently," he adds.
Fiber connection is more effective than copper because copper Wi-Fi cables are attached to some poles, which can be damaged.
Warren adds that the most important part of the construction process is building "the backbone" of the Wi-Fi connection. It creates an 'anchor' in places like the city hospital and police, protecting Wi-Fi connectivity even if power lines were to fall during storms.
Kami Balthazor, ALLO's Missouri Market Leader, said the company constantly communicates with its communities.
"We are very approachable. People can come into the storefront, they can call us, they can chat online" she explained.
Balthazor said the neighborhood in the construction area will receive a construction notice and can sign up for e-mail updates.
According to a press release by the city of Joplin, ALLO also uses signs like realtor signs and yard darts, which have a QR code to the company website.
"We really are hassle-free and love to be part of the community. So those are the things that separate us," Balthazor adds.
Balthazor said ALLO is very excited to be in Joplin and they've been a great asset and help during this build.
Residents with concerns or want to learn more can visit them in the main street storefront.
