Expanding High-Speed Internet Access
At the end of April, the Board of Supervisors awarded $500,000 in Last-Mile Broadband Grants to four local internet service providers (ISPs). “Last-mile” refers to the final leg connecting the high-speed internet (or, broadband ) service provider’s network to the end-use customer’s home. As a result of those grants, broadband service will be offered to 440 households to support distance learning, remote working, and tele-medicine. Each of the four projects – two of which are in District 1 – offers a unique and innovative approach to expanding broadband in areas challenged by both remote geography and low population density.
The two projects in District 1 include: 1) Nevada County Fiber’s project – which the County awarded $113,000 – will bring fiber service to 22 Nevada City homes in the community of Oak Ridge and Bear Claw Court neighborhood. This project is an extension of the 16-home, Banner Mountain project, funded throu