Broadband Feasibility Study

The City of Banning is seeking a qualified consultant or firm to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for expanding broadband network solutions to unserved and underserved areas within the city. This project is funded by a State of California Local Agency Technical Assistance (LATA) grant and aims to support economic advancement in a disadvantaged community. The consultant will identify quality solutions for deployment of reliable, high-performance broadband access to improve education outcomes, support business retention and expansion, and create employment opportunities. The study will specifically address broadband capacity and connectivity concerns critical to Banning's growth and economic resiliency, with particular focus on extending fiber optic broadband throughout the City.

The study will assess feasibility, costs, and alternatives for broadband expansion and develop comprehensive network designs for both community-based and utility-based services. Key objectives include creating detailed network designs to connect unserved and underserved community areas to fast, reliable broadband service meeting current bandwidth requirements, and providing open access with 24/7 customer support. The project will also evaluate the City's ability to establish Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) communication systems for water, wastewater, and electric utilities. Any detailed engineering plans generated will be used for future construction projects funded by other anticipated state and federal funding sources. This feasibility study will not include construction work, as the LATA Grant does not fund construction activities.

Key dates include a Q&A deadline of November 9, 2023 at 7:59 AM and a proposal submission deadline of November 23, 2023 at 7:59 AM. The City anticipates selecting one firm to perform these services. The project will promote environmental sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through increased remote work capabilities and will enhance the City's economic drivers including logistics, housing development, media and entertainment, healthcare, and retail sectors.