SUMMARY

PROJECT TITLE: Guemes View Fiber Expansion

DEPARTMENT: Administrative Services

BUDGET CODE: CFP-FBR-00002

JUSTIFICATION: Network Expansion

START DATE (FY): 2022

END DATE (FY): 2023

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

The Guemes View Fiberoptic Expansion project installs 55,000 feet of underground fiber conduit and 8,500 feet of aerial fiber conduit which pass 900 premises. When the project is complete the City will be able to provide access to high speed fiber internet to each of these premises.

RELATIONSHIP TO comprehensive PLAN:

This project is aligned and incorporated into the City's Comprehensive Plan which seeks to increase fiberoptic connectivity as a means of increasing economic development in Anacortes and throughout Skagit County.

The City of Anacortes' Comprehensive Plan (Ordinance 2982 Updating of the Comprehensive Plan under RCW 36.70A.130(5)(b) specifies the importance of broadband fiber infrastructure and this fiberoptic expansion project aligns with the plan's goals and policies:

GOAL ED-1. Balanced Economy.

Foster a balanced, diversified and sustainable local economy that contributes to Anacortes's high quality of life.

- Policy ED-1.14: Provide state of the art broadband infrastructure, including high-capacity fiber optic cable, for business, education, public affairs, and consumer uses.

GOAL CF-1. Support Existing Development and Future Growth.

Provide capital facilities and public services necessary to support existing and new development envisioned in the land use element.

- Policy CF-1.11: Evaluate the feasibility of the City providing broadband services.

A. Conduct a fiber-optic infrastructure feasibility study and business model analysis.

B. Author and work toward implementation of a Broadband Strategic Plan which describes in detail the technology and economic context and outlines the community’s options and intended plan to address its broadband needs.

GOAL U-1. Quality Utility Services.

Facilitate provision of quality utility services throughout Anacortes to meet the needs of residents and businesses.

- Policy U-1.5. Explore options for improving telecommunication services in Anacortes, with high speed internet being a high priority, including potential development of a broadband/ fiber master plan and policies requiring installation of conduit where needed

PROJECT OBJECTIVES / STATUS:

The trenching portion of this project is under contract and scheduled to begin in November 2022.