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Fiber Build Determined for 2007
May 29, 2007
Ephrata, WA – Grant County PUD Commissioners today approved a plan to build fiber optic service in two communities in the county. Two to four areas, or “hubs,” are expected to be finished by year end.
Build-out of the broadband network in 2007 is based on five objectives:
- Construction should be time efficient, and therefore will happen where the most infrastructure is already in place. The selected areas already have conduit installed to assist in build-out.
- Expansion will not detract from other electric system projects.
- Test the use of the design-build construction process.
- To renew service provider interest in Grant County.
In coming weeks, Commissioners will act on a resolution to approve a contract with an independent company for design and construction of the selected hubs. Build-out will begin with areas of Moses Lake and Quincy.
“This is a measured approach to continued construction of the broadband network,” said General Manager, Tim Culbertson. “Grant County is in a period of significant growth, and our electric system crews are busy with projects that bring power to the people of the county. Although we would prefer to use our own crews, for 2007, we will rely upon contractors to ensure that our core business remains our first priority.”
This year’s construction will increase the number of homes and businesses with fiber availability by approximately 650 while using materials and fiber optics from existing inventory. Beyond these two to four hub areas, all plans for expansion of the system will be considered in Grant PUD’s 2008 budgeting process.
On January 8, 2007, Commissioners rescinded the utility’s existing telecommunications “stand pat” policy and directed the General Manager to pursue investigation of available fiber optic technologies and financial options for expansion of Grant PUD’s wholesale fiber optic system. Commissioners will continue to hold discussions with telecommunication industry experts to find the best broadband solution for Grant County that is compatible with future expansion. The next discussion will be held on June 25 during the Commission’s regular meeting.
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Grant County Public Utility District is a Washington state municipal corporation that began electric service in 1942. Owned by the people it serves, Grant PUD generates and sells electricity to Grant County residents and millions of customers throughout Central Washington and the Pacific Northwest. The Priest Rapids Project, comprised of Priest Rapids and Wanapum Dams, produces nearly 2,000 megawatts of clean, renewable and reliable electricity – enough to supply a city the size of Seattle. A leader in science based technology; Grant PUD is committed to finding effective measures for the protection, mitigation and enhancement of salmon, steelhead and other natural and cultural resources.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Sarah Morford
(509) 754-6633 / smorfor@gcpud.org |
