> > AFAIK, the 2 primary ways to get access to ROW for most of the US is a > Franchise agreement and/or CLEC certification. This gets you into the > Utility ROW Easements without issues. Many properties have ROW Utility > easements. > > If you plan to do Video, you might as well do the CATV franchise > agreement. This typically gets you into the Utility ROW easements and > easements set aside for the city. >
And therein lies the rub. The Colorado PUC stated last week that they are cracking down on data-only providers filing for CLEC certification simply for ROW access. Now, if you want certification, you have to have a Class 5 switch and must plan to originate access traffic or they'll deny the application on the spot. > > Some states have allowed broadband providers to use utility easements. > > Unless you are prepared to spend a minimum of $250k for video, I recommend > you run away. Dish just launch phase 1 of their internet video offering. > More channels will follow. I don't think you'll ever make your money back > here, unless you plan to be at 5k subs. > Yeah, saw their plans for sling.com pop up last week. Ouch. $250k. That's expensive, but considering the PUCs stance on data only providers...it might be cheaper than jumping into the facilities-based telecom game 15 years too late.
