Specifications include, but are not limited to: Service and Infrastructure Analysis. Complete an analysis of all Internet service providers (ISPs) operating in the County. This analysis will include: Service packages offered by geographic area Service package pricing Existing fiber, coax, copper, fixed wireless and mobile wireless infrastructure Adoption of service Copies of high-level service reports submitted to the FCC as part of the Broadband DATA collection (due 9/1/22) This study should provide a clear picture of the state of broadband in the study area including wireless connectivity and how any forthcoming network(s) will fit into that landscape. The study should identify service models that could be utilized throughout the County, the locations in need of new or improved broadband service and identify cost-effective infrastructure improvements appropriate to the terrain. The designs will reflect best practices with respect to resilience and survivability to improve the likelihood that critical services such as telehealth and treatment programs for substance abuse are not disrupted. Outcomes will include GIS maps detailing the physical extent of fiber-optic lines, service areas, incumbencies, and level of service provided. Areas served by fixed wireless should also be documented. The study should use publicly available data. For example, the FCC has opened its Broadband DATA Fabric to municipal and county governments by special request. The contractor should seek County and City assistance to access this data. B. Technology and Trends Review. Review current trends in telecommunications technologies and the industries they support. Determine which technologies are most viable to serve specific areas of the County and to safeguard against obsolescence. For example, if wireless last mile technologies are proposed to serve lower density areas of the County, general recommendations regarding the type of wireless equipment to be deployed to promote scalability and the maximum number of wireless hops off of fiber backhaul to help future-proof the solution should be made. C. Digital Adoption. Assessment of the non-profit, philanthropic, and other organizations working to address the digital divide, focusing on different aspects of adoption, providing services only in a certain geography, and/or specializing in reaching certain demographics.
