Omni Fiber Acquires Citizens Fiber Network in PA

Omni Fiber has significantly expanded its high-speed broadband infrastructure in western Pennsylvania through the acquisition of Citizens Fiber. This strategic move enhances Omni Fiber's commitment to delivering advanced fiber-optic connectivity to communities previously underserved by robust internet options. The integration of Citizens Fiber's established network in Westmoreland County marks a pivotal step in Omni Fiber's ambitious growth trajectory across the region.

The combined entity is set to offer residential and business customers access to symmetrical internet speeds reaching up to 10 Gbps. Beyond high-speed internet, the expanded service portfolio will encompass television, phone, and mobile offerings, providing a comprehensive digital communication solution. This consolidation is particularly impactful in areas like Latrobe, Greensburg, and Mt. Pleasant, where reliable, high-capacity internet has been a critical need.

Oak Hill Capital-backed Omni Fiber, founded in 2022, has been aggressively investing in its network buildout, allocating over $500 million to fiber construction. The company's expansion efforts span multiple states, including Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Texas. This latest acquisition in Pennsylvania is a direct reflection of Omni Fiber's strategy to deepen its penetration in key markets, with plans to reach an additional 200,000 locations across several western Pennsylvania counties.

Citizens Fiber, recognized for its dependable fiber-based services and strong community presence, represents a synergistic addition to Omni Fiber's operational footprint. The transition is designed to ensure continuity for existing Citizens Fiber customers, who can anticipate uninterrupted service and a gradual integration of Omni Fiber's enhanced service offerings. This approach aims to leverage the existing customer loyalty while introducing superior technological capabilities.

The telecommunications sector, particularly the fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) segment, continues to see robust activity as demand for faster and more reliable internet escalates. With the increasing reliance on digital services for work, education, and entertainment, the push to upgrade legacy infrastructure is a dominant trend. Acquisitions like this one are crucial for consolidating market share and accelerating the deployment of next-generation networks, especially in less densely populated or historically overlooked areas.

Darrick Zucco, CEO of Omni Fiber, emphasized the milestone nature of the acquisition, stating, "This acquisition is an exciting milestone for Omni Fiber and a testament to our commitment to bringing advanced fiber connectivity to every community we serve. Citizens Fiber has built a tremendous foundation in Westmoreland County, and we are proud to build on that legacy." Similarly, Ken Cutrell, President of Citizens Fiber, highlighted the shared vision, noting, "Joining forces with Omni Fiber is a tremendous opportunity for our customers and our team. We built Citizens Fiber around a simple promise: deliver great service to the communities we call home."