Google is looking for a community to test their experimental fiber network, and Muncie made its effort to show that it was the right community.
Google announced in February its plans to create high-speed broadband networks and test them in one location or a small number of locations.
Cities in the U.S. had the opportunity to submit applications to Google to show why their community would be the best.
The Muncie-Delaware County Economic Development Alliance made a call-out to the community to nominate Muncie.
The city has been shooting a series of community photos at places that highlight Muncie, such as Minnetrista, Muncie Civic Theatre and City Hall. A billboard was also put into place on McGalliard Road and two videos were made and uploaded to YouTube. In one of the videos, Mayor Sharon McShurley lists reasons why Google should choose Muncie.
A second video was produced by Ball State University faculty and students. The production group was the same one that worked on a series of videos to promote downtown businesses as part of an immersive learning program.
Director of Production Nick Freda said that the city of Muncie approached the group of students to request a video to supplement their nomination.
"We didn't want to look or sound desperate when we asked Google to consider us," Freda said. "I don't think Google wants to form a partnership with someone that is begging them."
The video shows some the city's landmarks while community members give reasons, in a humorous way, as to why Google should pick Muncie.
"We wanted to show we can do great things," Freda said. "We have the people, but we need the technology to do better."
Traci Lutton, assistant director of Business Development, said although it is impossible for the city to know the number of nominations, she felt optimistic about Muncie being nominated among other communities.
"I'm relieved to see it was only 600 communities [that have applied], and I feel great about it," Lutton said.
The city plans to use Google's experimental network in ways that benefit the community. Freda said that the city wants to use the broadband network in adult learning centers
Muncie is competing against cities like Ann Arbor, Mich., and Baltimore, both of whom have addressed Google in different and creative ways.
In support of their nomination, Topeka, Kan., decided to informally rename itself "Google, Kansas" for the month of March, according to the Associated Press.
Google will review the 190,000 responses to determine where to build its fiber network,
according to its Web site. It will conduct site visits and consult third-party organizations.
"Based on a rigorous review of the data, we will announce our target community or communities by the end of the year," the Web site announced.
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