Verizon cleared the last hurdle to offer FiOS TV service in the five boroughs of New York City on July 16, as the New York State Public Service Commission approved the company's franchise to offer video service in the city.

Verizon already offers data service in Staten Island and a handful of enclaves in Manhattan, and has been building plant in the other three boroughs.

It started taking orders for FiOS TV in the past few weeks, setting install dates for late July and early August on the anticipation that the state PSC would approve the franchise, a process that is essentially a mere formality.

"Already, interest by the average New Yorker has been staggering," Verizon said in a press release. "We will have more to say soon about the introduction of FiOS TV service in New York City."

By the end of 2009, Verizon is supposed to be offering FiOS TV service to all of Staten Island, 62% of Manhattan, 30% of Brooklyn and 29% of Queens and the Bronx, according to the franchise agreement. The telco has until 2014 to complete the rollout of FiOS TV in all five boroughs.