Implementing the National Broadband Plan | Issues

Pole attachment rules

On May 20, 2010, the Federal Communications Commission adopted an Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that implements key recommendations of the National Broadband Plan for promoting broadband deployment and competition. The Order and Further Notice will make broadband more affordable and available by speeding and reducing the costs of access to an essential piece of infrastructure: utility poles.

Comment due date: 08/16/2010

Comment reply due date: 09/13/2010

Establish a joint task force for rates, terms and conditions for access to public rights-of-way

Recommendation #51
FCC Chapter: 6.6

Status: In progress

The Federal Communications Commission should establish a joint task force with state, Tribal and local policymakers to craft guidelines for rates, terms and conditions for access to public rights-of-way.

Harmonize access policy for all poles, ducts, conduits and rights-of-way

Recommendation #50
FCC Chapter: 6.5

Status: In progress

Congress should consider amending Section 224 of the Act to establish a harmonized access policy for all poles, ducts, conduits and rights-of-way.

Improve the collection and availability of information regarding poles, ducts, conduits and rights-of-way

Recommendation #49
FCC Chapter: 6.4

Status: In progress

The Federal Communications Commission should improve the collection and availability of information regarding the location and availability of poles, ducts, conduits and rights-of-way.

Establish a comprehensive timeline for infrastructure access and dispute resolution

Recommendation #48
FCC Chapter: 6.3

Status: Completed

The Federal Communications Commission should establish a comprehensive timeline for each step of the Section 224 access process and reform the process for resolving disputes regarding infrastructure access.

Implement rules that will lower the cost of the pole attachment "make-ready" process

Recommendation #47
FCC Chapter: 6.2

Status: Completed

The Federal Communications Commission should implement rules that will lower the cost of the pole attachment "make-ready" process.