Caltrans Encroachment Permit 02-26-6-BB-0286 for the ADF-F12-CD2-UG4

The proposed work involves placement of temporary traffic control devices and signage, installation of approximately 1,304 feet of underground high-density polyethylene (HDPE) conduit with fiber optic cable, and installation of four 3-foot by 5-foot by 2-foot pull vaults within the Caltrans right-of-way along State Route 97 (PM L0.00–L0.188) in Siskiyou County. Horizontal directional drilling (HDD) will be the primary installation method. If HDD is infeasible due to subsurface conditions, rock saw or trenching methods may be used, subject to Caltrans approval. 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.