Vermont Launches Affordable 'Long Drop' Broadband Program
The Vermont Community Broadband Board (VCBB) is launching a new program to subsidize the cost of nonstandard broadband connections, including underground installations, it said Wednesday. The Affordable Long Drop Program will award grants to communications union districts (CUD) and small…
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ISPs to cover installation costs for homes located far from existing fiber lines. It will prioritize manufactured housing communities, low- and moderate-income residents and households already committed to service. “This program is designed to be the final push that turns availability into true accessibility,” said VCBB Digital Equity Officer Britaney Watson. Applications will be accepted from Aug. 29 to Sept. 12. Providers must have a universal service plan and a "viable business plan" to qualify. The VCBB encouraged residents to contact their local CUDs to determine eligibility and sign up. The agency didn't say how much funding will be made available.