Project Title:
Blackfeet Tribe of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation
Funding Program:
Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program - Round 1
Project Purpose/Type:
The Broadband Infrastructure Deployment project proposes to install fiber directly connecting 4,482 unserved Native American households with fiber to home service at speeds ranging from 50/5 Mbps to 250/25 Mbps w/100 millisecond latency.
State(s):
-
$33,235,003.92Funding Amount
The project proposes the following activities designed to improve access to, and use of, broadband services among Tribal members: Engage in a multi-phased approach to this infrastructure project in 11 service areas of approximately 437 route miles of underground feeder and distribution fiber, and about 214 route miles of service drop cable. Will upgrade broadband infrastructure by replacing outdated copper-based technology with FTTP high capacity, high density Gigabit Ethernet Internet access to each household and business. Install new customer premises equipment in each household and business. Complete engineering and network design using route mapping. Obtain permits regarding environmental, cultural, and historical assessments. Replace all electrical systems in the central office, remote huts/cabinets, and customer premises equipment. Install 6 equipment shelters with generators.
This project will:
- Create approximately 25 jobs in IT, project management, technology support, and compliance.
- Expand opportunities in e-commerce, telemedical services, entertainment, distance learning, e-government, and agriculture.
- Increase economic development opportunities including job growth and creation.
- Provide opportunities to be globally competitive.
- Improve the overall quality of life for Tribal members.
The project intends to benefit Tribal residents, students, educators, employees and employers, as well as those in need of telemedical services.