Utility Locating Challenges

A new analysis warns that BEAD construction could put additional pressure on utility-locating systems.

In an October 8 article, researchers at New York Law School’s Advanced Communications Law and Policy Institute summarized their September analysis estimating that BEAD fiber builds will generate about 1.4 million requests through the 811 system, resulting in roughly 8.1 million notifications to utilities.

The researchers warn that incomplete underground infrastructure records, shortages of qualified locators, and delays in responding to requests could increase construction costs and slow deployment.

They also identify a gap in states’ preparations, saying that requiring broadband providers to follow existing excavation laws does not address whether utilities have accurate records or enough locating capacity to respond promptly. Providers could follow the required steps and still face delays before crews can begin work.

The analysis recommends strengthening locating capacity through workforce training and qualified third-party locators, combined with targeted improvements to underground infrastructure records along planned broadband routes.

Louisiana Fiber Expansion

A BEAD-supported fiber project in Louisiana is preparing to bring broadband to thousands of locations in East Baton Rouge Parish.

According to ConnectLA’s October 7 announcement, state officials joined ConnectLA and provider REV Fiber in the city of Central for a groundbreaking ceremony.

The expansion is expected to reach 2,840 locations across the parish, including 472 in Central.

According to local news outlet WAFB, federal BEAD funding will support approximately 2,500 of those locations, with REV funding the remainder. Construction is expected to begin in November and take seven to eight months.

The project is supported through Louisiana’s GUMBO 2.0 program and adds to the effort to expand broadband access statewide by 2028 or sooner.

Pennsylvania’s First Awards

Pennsylvania has announced more than $448 million in BEAD awards supporting broadband projects across 50 counties.

Governor Josh Shapiro and the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority announced the funding on October 2. The funding represents the first award wave from the $711 million approved for deployment.

The finalized agreements include providers such as Brightspeed, Frontier and Verizon, along with regional operators.

One project will combine approximately $29 million in BEAD funding with $40 million from Verizon to serve nearly 3,000 homes and businesses in Centre and Mifflin counties.

Pennsylvania expects to announce additional awards before the end of the year.
The state also introduced ConnectPA, a website where residents can check when the broadband authority estimates their locations will receive a connection.

The program’s published timeline calls for planning, design, permitting and pole-attachment work beginning this fall, with network construction beginning in 2027.

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