June 10, 2021
Georgetown Broadband is pleased to announce that ConnectMaine, the state’s team promoting broadband access across the state, recently granted $858,365 in funding to support our project. This grant was one of the first awarded from the $15 million bond issue approved last year by Maine voters, and was the second largest grant awarded in this round. The grant covers roughly 25% of the total anticipated cost of the project. The grant is a testament to all the volunteer committee work that has gone into this project over the years. We are grateful for all the contributions made to date, and to ConnectMaine and the state for the support.
You can see the full announcement and projects receiving grants HERE
Schedule Update
The project remains on schedule to start construction in September. The timing may still change depending on the speed with which the existing pole evaluation process is completed. Some of you may have seen Consolidated and Axiom personnel and vehicles in town, performing pole inspections. The timing of the completion of this process, and the impact on project cost for any replacements, is pending.
Town Support of the Project
The town has graciously agreed to lease the project a spot near the school for the Control Office. The Control Office is the central point for the network’s equipment and backup power. The town’s support enabled us to finalize the design and begin ordering material in advance of price increases. Thank you Georgetown!
Service Update
We already passed 178 sign-ups for service. Signups are outpacing our initial projections and confirm that demand is high for quality internet in town. The demonstrated level of interest was an important data point on our successful grant application.
Sign up for Service!
Axiom, our operating partner, continues to take reservations for service. If you haven’t already, please call Axiom at 207-271-2801 to sign up. The Axiom team is working remotely due to the pandemic. Leave a voicemail and the team WILL call you back to answer questions you may have and sign you up for service.
Please share information about Georgetown Broadband with your neighbors, especially the summer folks as they return. We are contacting property owners through multiple channels, the more information that is shared, the better!
