To bring high-speed internet access to around 1,650 households and businesses in the county
Penn Yan, NY –
In a recent session of the Yates County Legislature, a pivotal decision was made to further fund the county’s broadband project, despite some opposition.
During Monday’s meeting, legislators passed a resolution authorizing an additional expenditure of $419,044 to New York Engineering Services. This allocation supplements the existing $1.05 million contract with the same company, which had previously received legislative approval in 2021.
The impetus behind this additional allocation is a notable increase in the scope of the “fiber to premises” project. The initial engineering design had underestimated the project’s length. Originally slated to engineer and construct 205 miles of fiber to homes, the project’s requirements have since expanded to encompass 300 miles.
To finance this expansion, the county is relying on a recently acquired supplemental grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), amounting to $3.2 million. This grant is in addition to the $10.4 million in funding secured through the USDA’s Rural Utilities Service “ReConnect” program several years ago.
The primary aim of this ambitious undertaking is to bring high-speed internet access to around 1,650 households and businesses in the county that have been either underserved or completely without access. As a result of the increased scope and investment, the project’s anticipated completion date has been pushed to early 2027.
It’s essential to note that the decision was not without its detractors. Legislators Rick Willson, Carlie Chilson, Mark Morris, and Terry Button voted against entering into the new contract with New York Engineering Services, expressing concerns about transparency and cost.
Legislator Jesse Jayne chose to abstain from voting, citing the need for more information before making a decision.
Legislator Willson articulated his reservations, stating, “There is no way I can support this. We need a lot more information on what is being provided and at what cost it is being provided.”
Legislator Button echoed these concerns, emphasizing the importance of transparency in this substantial project.
Despite opposition, the resolution passed, signifying the county’s commitment to expanding broadband access and connecting previously underserved communities to high-speed internet.
