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April 9, 2007
Grant PUD Commissioners Discuss Broadband Communications
Presentation Analyzes Technologies for Future Build-out
EPHRATA, WA – Grant PUD Commissioners today began a dialog regarding future broadband technology possibilities for the county. This discussion was the first of several that will lay out options for future Commission action.
On January 8, 2007, Commissioners rescinded the utility’s existing telecommunications “stand pat” policy and directed the General Manager to pursue investigation of available fiber optic technologies and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. Today’s presentation was the first step in this process.
J.R. Simmons, an independent contractor from COMgroup Incorporated, walked Commissioners through different broadband network architectures, including fiber optic networks, hybrid networks and wireless networks. During this process, Commissioners and Grant PUD staff will also access other non-District expertise to educate themselves regarding technical options for the utility.
No decisions regarding build-out were made at the meeting. Future presentations with additional independent telecommunications experts will be scheduled in May and June.
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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 |
