The N.C. Department of Information Technology's Division of Broadband and Digital Equity today posted final guidance for its Broadband Pole Replacement Program as part of ongoing efforts to connect more North Carolinians to affordable, reliable high-speed internet.
This program, established with $100 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds, will reimburse high-speed internet service providers for eligible pole replacement costs in connection with qualified projects. Broadband providers deploy infrastructure in remote areas by attaching fiber and other communications assets to utility poles. When utility poles lack space for additional attachments, a pole replacement often is required to accommodate the new infrastructure attachments.
“The goal of this program is to quickly facilitate the deployment of high-speed internet service to households, businesses, agricultural operations and community anchor institutions in unserved areas,” said Nate Denny, NCDIT Deputy Secretary for Broadband and Digital Equity. “It addresses a significant barrier to closing the digital divide in remote parts of our state.”
Service providers were required to prequalify for the Broadband Pole Replacement Program this summer. The program guidance was posted for public review and comment in August and September and will be used by service providers when applying for reimbursement through the program.
The program will launch Feb. 1, 2024, and service providers will be able to submit reimbursement requests for eligible expenses dating back to June 1, 2021.
For more information about the NCDIT Division of Broadband and Digital Equity, the Broadband Pole Replacement program and Governor Cooper’s plan to close the digital divide in North Carolina, please visit ncbroadband.gov.