The Broadband Task Force delved further into researching potential fiber options in Spring Hill last week.
CTC Technology and Energy — a consultant hired to conduct a fiber feasibility study of a potential fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) network — met with the Task Force via conference call Dec. 12 at the Community Center to present the financial analysis of several FTTP models. A feasibility study seeks to accomplish two goals: Is the idea possible, and should you move forward with it?
The analysis investigates the financial implications of operating the network over 20 years and illustrates the requirements to operate the network cash positive for three models:
- Dark (dormant) FTTP model — City builds fiber infrastructure and leases to a private partner who lights the fiber and provides service.
- Open Access Model — City builds fiber and installs all electronics to light the fiber. It is then leased to multiple Internet service providers.
- Municipal Retail Model — City deploys all network assets and becomes the Internet service provider, essentially creating another City utility.
Other approaches to better Internet in Spring Hill were presented and included middle-mile fiber (essentially building a ring-like shape of fiber in the City), wireless Internet or simply attracting more service providers.
The Broadband Task Force is set to meet for a special meeting 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 4 at Sycamore Ridge Golf Club, 21731 Clubhouse Drive, Spring Hill, to review the information presented to them in November and December and formulate questions prior to CTC’s final presentation on Jan. 23 at the Community Center, 613 S. Race Street. Another working meeting is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, with a recommendation to the City Council planned for 7 p.m. Feb. 15.
View the full presentation from this month’s meeting.