ConnectWaukegan - Fixed Wireless Proof of Concept

ConnectWaukegan, a public-private broadband provider, conducted a Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) Fixed Wireless prototype in Waukegan (IL) as a proof of concept. The research was done to present the findings and recommendations for potential leverage of CBRS Fixed Wireless capabilities to increase access to broadband by underserved residents in the city. The approach was to provide a variety of broadband alternatives working with commercial providers (Comcast, AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile) as well as providing public options and access points to provide a variety of different solutions and capabilities. ConnectWaukegan found that CBRS fixed wireless could be used selectively to fill bandwidth access gaps in different low-income neighborhoods or public areas throughout Waukegan with a mobile public access alternative where traditional wired vendors or wireless vendors are not available or cost-effective. Also, CBRS antennas could be deployed on geographically strategic buildings or locations with cost-effective access to a high-speed internet backend that is already being paid for by a private partner, the school, town, or county. The organization recommends a gradual and cost-effective targeted neighborhood-by-neighborhood roll-out plan based on demand as well as access to cost-effective back-end broadband and radio mounting locations; particularly around schools and libraries. Finally, as an internet service provider, ConnectWaukegan would be able to capture the $30/month benefit from the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to connect underserved, low-income residents, and repay the cost of the CBRS solution as well as fund additional efforts.