Craftsbury Dark Fiber Network
Craftsbury Broadband Committee embarked on a journey to improve internet access through the implementation of a town-owned dark fiber network. With the support of grants and local businesses, they are bringing high-speed connectivity to over 600 addresses, maximizing coverage for residents and businesses alike.
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Presentation Transcript
Craftsbury Dark Fiber Network Lighting the Kingdom Craftsbury Broadband Committee November 30, 2018
Improved internet access a High Priority Town Visit process facilitated by Vermont Council on Rural Development Three intensive workshops over two-months in late 2015 Citizens, employees, representatives of State and Federal agencies Dozens of issues surfaced internet among top 3 Craftsbury Broadband Committee formed to find a solution About a dozen members Represented citizens, businesses, institutions
Broadband Committee Education Experts called in to teach Committee about broadband Technologies, service models, pros and cons Interviewed incumbent and prospective providers Created list of questions to ensure consistency Documented responses to permit fair comparison Decided Town-owned dark fiber network was the right answer No incumbent could provide appropriate, cost-effective solution
Awarded USDA-RD and NBRC Grants Business/employment oriented Endorsement letters from businesses along proposed route Per-mile cost estimates from recent projects Town subsidy: up to 25 business drops In-kind: design, engineering, management All indirect labor provided by volunteers In-kind Town Grants
Craftsbury Dark Fiber Network 13 miles aerial, -mile underground Town network plus State network in nearest towns, together pass ~600 addresses (including ~half of Craftsbury and three village and business centers) Maximize business coverage
Pole-Attachment Licenses Multiple pole owners Registered with DPS as Broadband Service Provider Town insurance carrier unacquainted with utility services Depending on pole condition and congestion, make ready can run to many $100 s per pole!
Construction: RFQ Build-out RFQ format based on VTA template Would use USDA RUS-515 if we had a do-over Many RFQ detail items Underground can present significant $$ uncertainty Each splice is a cost item! Traffic Control costs can be substantial!! Five bids received; two selected for negotiation No construction surprises; met schedule
ISP: RFP to Lit Fiber Three ISP proposals received; two selected for negotiation Lit fiber achieved Delays continue: backbone splice problems Inspection during build-out too expensive Contractor responsible to fix errors
Key Findings Three years: committee formation to lit fiber Final total cost very close to original estimates Anticipate delays, delays, delays You can do it!
