Massachusetts Dispute Illustrates Challenges of Reaching Underserved Broadband Areas

A dispute in Massachusetts illustrates the challenges that decision makers face in determining the best option for bringing service to underserved broadband areas. In this case decision makers must weigh a range of factors in determining whether Comcast or competitive network operator Matrix Design Group should be awarded funding to help cover some of the costs of deploying broadband to unserved portions of the small non-contiguous towns of Hardwick (MA) and Montague (MA).

The state of Massachusetts has made a grant of five million dollars available to bring service to underserved broadband areas in 10 towns where Comcast already reaches some but not all residents with broadband over coax. Comcast was the only bidder for the grant in seven of the towns and agreed to bring service to an eighth without support. But Matrix bid against Comcast in Hardwick and Montague. As the nation grapples with how to bring service to underserved broadband areas, other decision makers also are likely to be presented with choosing between a more ambitious proposal from a less experienced network operator and a less ambitious proposal from an established player. Clearly getting the decision criteria and benchmarks right will be critical to reaching the most people with the best solution.