We’ve all seen it coming for a long time: whether Google was buying dark fiber, or bidding on the wireless spectrum, or hiring former telephone execs, we all love a rumor about Google setting up Internet infrastructure. But this time it’s no rumor: Google admits they’re building high speed broadband networks in select markets. But unlike their previous Utopian visions, this ain’t no free ride:

We’re planning to build and test ultra high-speed broadband networks in a small number of trial locations across the United States. We’ll deliver Internet speeds more than 100 times faster than what most Americans have access to today with 1 gigabit per second, fiber-to-the-home connections. We plan to offer service at a competitive price to at least 50,000 and potentially up to 500,000 people.

So where are these privileged few communities? Google hasn’t decided yet—in fact, they’re asking interested parties to fill out a request for information (RFI) form. Presumably, communities with many people interested—and cooperation from the local government—will be among the test audience. (RFIs due by March 26.)

As always, Google is espousing principles of openness and novelty with this project. They’ll be looking at new apps and deployment, new ways of building fiber networks and an open access network with a choice of service providers.

And as always, Google includes a video for those of us who are visual learners, or too lazy to read:

What do you think? Do you trust Google with all your information? Or will you be opting out, even if Google comes to your town?