Caltrans Encroachment Permit 02-25-6-BB-0534 for the CVIN, dba Vast Networks State Route 97 Middle-Mile Broadband Network Project

CVIN, dba Vast Networks, in coordination with the California Department of Technology and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), proposes the installation of broadband infrastructure consisting of conduit, fiber optic cable, and vaults on State Route 97 between post mile (PM) 36.153 and PM 49.823 in Siskiyou County. This project would include the installation of approximately 10,000-miles of broadband infrastructure throughout California within the State Highway System, including Interstate routes. Due to the varied topography and locations of the 10,000-mile broadband infrastructure across the State of California, the design would be dependent on project site features. Work would include the installation of subsurface broadband conduit and fiber, the installation of network repeater hubs at approximately 50-mile intervals, as well as the installation of vaults (Pull, Splice, and Buried) at various locations. All work will take place within 30-feet of highway rights-of-way except where not feasible. The areas of project impact in most areas will be limited to the existing paved surfaces, disturbed shoulders, and maintained Caltrans right-of-way. Purpose: This Middle-Mile Broadband Network project will install the broadband infrastructure along the State Highway System (SHS) necessary to connect to a third party operated Last Mile Broadband Network which will bring internet connectivity to homes, businesses, and community institutions. Need: In July 2021, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law Senate Bill (SB) 156 to create an open-access middle-mile network to bring high-speed broadband service to all Californians. The lack of available middle-mile broadband infrastructure has been a major issue in connecting California’s communities. The statewide open-access middle-mile network included in SB 156 is a foundational investment to ensure every Californian has access to broadband Internet service that meets the connectivity needs of today, and well into the future. This project intends to support providing critical statewide broadband infrastructure to enhance access to and increase the affordability of high-speed internet for all Californians. Scope of Work Work within the existing Caltrans right-of-way would include the following: • Placement of temporary traffic control devices and signage. • Removal of minor vegetation. • Install approximately 72,300 linear feet of broadband conduit and fiber optic cable, generally consisting of two (2) 1 ½-inch high-density polyethylene (HDPE) ducts, with a minimum depth of cover of 48 inches. • 5-inch cased bore would be used to cross Caltrans roadways. • Installation of underground fiber optic cable. • Excavation of bore pits planned within project limits. Standard bore pits typically measure 3 feet wide by 5 feet long by 4 feet deep. o Dewatering within and adjacent to bore pits would occur as necessary, with water removed from the site. • Installation of twenty-five (25) standard poly/concrete vaults measuring 3 feet wide by 5 feet long by 3 feet deep. • Application of temporary and permanent erosion control, as needed.