Here's a breakdown of the initial steps you'd take to initiate a citywide fiber project, incorporating elements from the provided feasibility studies and focusing on funding, ISP evaluation, and infrastructure considerations:
Phase 1: Strategy & Policy Development
- Establish a Broadband Policy: Define the city's vision for broadband. This should cover:
- Goals: Ubiquity, affordability, competition, open access, desired speeds, and financial sustainability.
- Roles: The city's role as owner, facilitator, or partner.
- Community Engagement: Processes for gathering public input and ongoing communication.
- Identify Potential Funding Sources:
- Government Grants: Explore federal and state programs (e.g., BEAD, Capital Projects Fund, state-specific initiatives).
- Private Investment: Gauge interest from private ISPs willing to invest in exchange for access or partnership.
- Municipal Bonds: As a last resort, assess feasibility and public support.
- Conduct a Detailed Needs Assessment:
- Existing Infrastructure Mapping: Use GIS data to map current broadband coverage, identifying underserved areas.
- Demand Assessment: Surveys, focus groups to understand community needs, price sensitivity, and desired applications.
- Assemble a Project Team: Include City staff from relevant departments, legal counsel, and consider external expertise in broadband planning and financing.
Phase 2: Market Engagement & Infrastructure Planning
- Engage with Potential ISP Partners:
- Issue a Request for Information (RFI): To gauge interest and gather proposed partnership models and business plans.
- Evaluate RFI Responses: Assess alignment with city goals, financial viability, technical expertise, and track record.
- Develop Infrastructure Plan:
- Network Design: Aerial vs. underground, fiber route selection, connection points, consideration for existing infrastructure.
- Construction Methods: Traditional trenching vs. micro-trenching, potential to leverage existing conduit.
- Cost Estimation: Develop detailed cost estimates based on chosen design and construction methods.
- Identify Anchor Tenants:
- Government Facilities: City Hall, schools, libraries, public safety, etc.
- Community Anchor Institutions: Hospitals, universities, major businesses.
- Contributes Assets: Explore if institutions can contribute existing conduit, fiber, or real estate.
Phase 3: Funding & Partnership Negotiation
- Finalize Funding Strategy: Based on initial cost estimates and market interest, solidify the funding approach.
- Negotiate Partnership Agreements:
- Lease Agreements: Terms for leasing city-owned fiber to ISPs, including pricing, service level agreements, and revenue sharing.
- Shared Risk Partnerships: Structure agreements for joint investment and operation, outlining roles, responsibilities, and revenue splits.
- Secure Necessary Approvals:
- State Corporation Commission: If required, obtain regulatory approval for electric utility involvement.
- City Council: Seek necessary approvals for funding, partnership agreements, and project execution.
Important Considerations Throughout the Process:
- Open Access: Decide on the level of open access, whether at the infrastructure or service level, and incorporate it into agreements.
- Community Engagement: Maintain transparent communication with residents and businesses throughout the project.
- Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all activities comply with relevant laws and regulations.
These steps will lay a strong foundation for a successful citywide fiber network project, addressing key aspects of funding, ISP evaluation, and infrastructure planning.