Specifications include, but are not limited to: 2.1.1 Service and Infrastructure Analysis. Complete an analysis of incumbent Internet service providers (ISPs) and existing broadband infrastructure currently serving the county. Provide a clear picture of the state of broadband in the study area and how any forthcoming network will fit into that landscape. Analysis should identify service models that could be utilized in the region. Outcomes will include GIS maps detailing the physical extent of fiber-optic lines, service areas, incumbency, and levels of services provided. The GIS maps should provide overlays of served, underserved and unserved areas based on FCC’s definition of broadband (i.e., ≥ 25 Mbps download and ≥ 3 Mbps upload speeds). 2.1.2 Needs Assessment and Outreach. Complete a needs assessment for large- scale use of broadband for county businesses including industrial, manufacturing, and other institutions in the county. Obtain stakeholder input using online surveys, community anchor interviews, enterprise business interviews, and small and medium sized business interviews. The information gleaned from this outreach effort will then be considered alongside a review of broadband improvement efforts that have already occurred regionally. 2.1.3 Site Analysis. Complete a site analysis to discover whether existing public assets and/or land can be used to better facilitate network construction and operation. 2.1.4 Market Analysis. Complete a market analysis to serve as the basis for determining penetration and adoption rates, foreseeable competition, and sensible pricing for services provided. 2.1.5 Broadband Provider Business Model and Partnership Evaluation. Insights from the mapped asset inventory and local needs assessment with gap analysis will be used to develop a business model that can service the targeted areas within the community.
