Proposal: Broadband for Milo, Sebec and Brownville

To the Editor;
    Considering the inadequate broadband connections in the Milo, Sebec and Brownville area, I propose opening access to the “Three-Ring Binder” fiber optic cable in Milo.
    The Piscataquis County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is located on Sargent Hill Road within a quarter mile of the cable running along Route 11.

    The EOC would provide an ideal site for a regional access point and a connecting link to other towers. The goal here is to provide high-speed Internet where service is limited or does not exist.
    The issue is clearly outlined in the Bangor Daily News article of May 1: “Experts say economy-boosting Maine broadband expansion will depend on cities, towns.”
    As the title suggests, market reality leaves rural areas underserved and on their own. Although knowledgeable individuals may live within communities, rural towns and counties are ill-equipped or staffed to address the issue.
    For example, as far as I know, Piscataquis County does not employ an Information Technology specialist or computer technician.
    Obviously, Maine must have broadband to grow socially and economically. But, no commercial service will make the investment required to build a rural network without an expectation of profit. Therefore, planning, construction and implementation will be realized only through the creative use of federal and state resources. Once established, management of the local network could be negotiated with commercial service providers.
    The high-speed cable is in place. Examples of local networks are well documented. Broadband equipment and technology is available and improving. Now is the time!
William N. Welsh
Sebec