NEWFANE — The Vermont Telecommunications Authority (VTA) will hold a public forum at the NewBrook Fire Department, 698 Route 30, on Wednesday, Jan. 22, from 10 a.m. until noon.
The Windham Regional Commission invited the VTA to explain numerous telecommunications infrastructure improvement projects already underway in the region, and those planned.
“Access to cell phone service is a top priority for many of our towns, residents, and businesses. Access to high-speed broadband is also a priority,” said Chris Campany, executive director of the Windham Regional Commission.
“People have seen crews stringing fiber optic line, and are aware of applications for wireless broadband and cell towers. We've gotten lots of questions about when the projects will be built, what areas will be served, and who will be able to access the service,” Campany added.
The VTA staff is also scheduling special meetings with members of designated Business Broadband Improvement Districts (BBIDs).
BBIDs were developed through applications reviewed and designated by the Vermont Agency of Administration. They are groups of businesses within a defined area eligible to receive technical and/or financial support from the VTA in its efforts to improve available broadband Internet service specifically for businesses.
Meetings will take place in Wilmington and Putney. Halifax is also a designated District; VTA staff will meet with its members at a later date.
“The first phase for Business Broadband Improvement Districts is for the VTA to gather more detailed information from members of each District. These meetings will begin that process in Windham County, as well as provide an opportunity to share the process the VTA will use to identify potential solutions,” said Christopher Campbell, executive director of the VTA.
The public forum, at the NewBrook Fire Department, will address projects throughout the Windham Region. VTA staff will provide information about the scope of cell, fiber optic and broadband projects, and insights into opportunities these projects provide.