The first sods have been turned as part of the rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN) in the Upper Blue Mountains.
NBN Co spokesman Kelly Stevens confirmed last Thursday that preparatory works, such as installing pits and pipes, are beginning in parts of Katoomba, Leura, Medlow Bath, Wentworth Falls, Bullaburra and Lawson.
That would enable construction to begin in coming months, he said.
"All of our technologies are designed to deliver fast broadband to meet the needs of internet users, both residential and business.
"Not only are they designed to be fast, but they all have upgrade paths for the future."
The NBN's online rollout maps have been updated to show areas where build preparation has begun in the Upper Mountains, taking in an area with more than 15,000 homes and businesses.
Member for Macquarie Louise Markus said she was pleased work has started "under a revised rollout approach that will save months in construction time".
Labor spokeswoman for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, said it was a "relief" to see a broadband service begin to roll out to parts of the Upper Mountains, "but Mt Victoria, Blackheath, Hazelbrook and Woodford appear to have been dropped off this list, contrary to the Liberals promise in December last year".
"There's still no joy for the more than 20,000 homes and businesses from Lapstone to Hazelbrook who will watch fibre optic pass them by on its way to the Upper Mountains."
But Mrs Markus said "with sequencing of areas being undertaken by NBN Co, I am hoping the Lower Mountains will be included in the next rollout phase of the three-year plan".
"I have made representations to Bill Morrow, CEO of NBN Co, on their behalf."
