Press Releases
Foundation for Rural Service, JSI Release Report Outlining the Broadband Network Deployment Process
February 17, 2025
Arlington, Va February 17, 2025 — The Foundation for Rural Service (FRS), the philanthropic arm of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, which is focused on educating the public and policymakers on issues impacting rural America, and JSI, a broadband solutions partner with experience in engineering, strategic planning, financial, regulatory, cybersecurity and network management, today released a new report explaining the typical timeline for a new broadband network deployment project.
Rural broadband deployment projects and programs have become top of mind for consumers and policymakers since the COVID-19 pandemic, however the lengthy process to build and maintain these networks is often lost in the conversation. “Delivering Broadband from Beginning to ‘End’” describes the many steps an internet service provider must take to bring a new network online, from market analysis to developing a business plan, engineering, service delivery, maintenance and making upgrades critical to sustaining a reliable and robust broadband network.
“News of funding for a new broadband network project is something to be celebrated,” said FRS Executive Director Pam Becker. “But securing funding is only one piece of the larger puzzle of deploying and sustaining networks. It can take years of planning, engineering, obtaining permits and materials, and construction before the last shovel is laid down and service is turned on for customers. This new report breaks down this lengthy process to get and keep rural communities connected.”
“For the end user, the process often feels distant, but this report pulls back the curtain to reveal the full timeline,” said JSI’s President of Business Development and Consulting Steve Meltzer. “It highlights the intricate efforts happening behind-the-scenes at firms like ours to both build and maintain sustainable networks that will connect and empower communities for generations to come.”
The report is now available on the FRS website and will be shared with NTCA members, JSI customers and the public throughout 2025. Steve Meltzer will also present the paper during a session at the NTCA 2025 RTIME in San Antonio on Tuesday, February 25.
