BROADBAND INTERNET PROJECT IS PROGRESSING

As of early January 2021, execution of the project make-ready process steps is continuing. Great progress has been made since the last report.

Recall that the first step of a 3-step process referred to as "pole setting” involves placing a new utility pole in the ground next to an old pole that needs to be replaced. The old poles are then removed once all electrical and telecommunication cables have been transferred over to the new poles. Per the list of utility poles that Verizon and Eversource jointly identified earlier as needing to be replaced, Verizon has "set" a significant number of the 108 poles they are responsible for replacing. Weather permitting, Verizon plans to complete the replacement of all 108 poles by 2/28/2021. As of this report, Eversource has also "set" a significant number of the roughly 50 poles they are responsible for replacing. A complete accounting of Eversource’s progress has not been provided to MBI at this time. According to MBI, Eversource is currently undergoing a reorganization of their field operations, which is impacting the reporting being provided to MBI. But Eversource has definitely made significant progress. A drive down West Road or Town Hill Road provides plenty of evidence of their progress made.

Recall that the next step in the 3-step process is referred to as "first make ready." This step will involve Eversource moving electrical wires as required, following the replacement (pole setting) of the 158 poles involved in the first step of the 3-step process. Verizon is not involved in this second step. As of this report, Eversource has provided an estimated completion date of 3/31/2021 for the completion of "first make ready."

Recall that step three of the 3-step process is referred to as "second make ready." This step will involve Verizon moving telecommunication wiring as required, following the moving of all electrical wiring on the poles. Eversource is not involved in this third step. Verizon can shadow Eversource, following closely behind Eversource, and perform their work once Eversource's crews have exited an area. As of this report, Verizon has provided an estimated completion date of 4/30/2021 for the completion of "second make ready."

Charter will be able to start the network construction phase of the project following the completion of all steps associated with the make-ready process. The estimated start date for construction is 5/1/2021. As of this report, Charter has provided an estimated completion date of 5/1/2022 for the network construction to be completed and made operational.

Progress is definitely being made, so stay tuned!  Check back in early March 2021 for the next project report.