FAQ - Northwest Fiberworx

CUD
Plan / Model
Terminology
Google Fiber
Other

What is the CUDs mission?

Like electricity, water, and sewer services, high-speed, fiber-based internet access lines should be considered a utility that needs to be connected to every home/business.

What is a CUD? How is it funded?

A Communications Union District (CUD) is an organization of two or more towns that join together as a municipal entity to build communication infrastructure together.

The CUD is currently funded using State and Federal grants, commercial loans, and revenue bonding. Once operational the CUD will be sustained by network revenue.

Does my town joining mean I pay extra taxes?

No, as stated in 30 VSA § 3056, CUDs do not have the power to levy, assess, apportion, or collect any tax upon property within the district, nor upon any of its members.

Can I opt-out of getting CUD internet?

There is no commitment to join. The CUD is simply building a network past your home/business.

Why are we part of a CUD?

CUDs are a vehicle to access state and federal funds. More importantly, CUDs serve as an alternative to relying on the incumbent providers to solve Vermont's broadband inequity.

HOW MANY EMPLOYEES DOES THE CUD HAVE? WHAT ARE THEIR SALARIES? WHAT PAYS THOSE SALARIES?

At this time the NWCUD employees 2 FTE and 1 PTE. Annual budgets including salaries are approved by the NWCUD Governing Board in accordance with 30 V.S.A. § 3075. Annual budgets are sent to each member community along with the CUD Annual Report. Found Here Staff and operations are currently funded by Act 71 - Broadband Preconstruction Grant Program.

WHAT IS THE PROJECTED GROWTH FOOTPRINT OF THE CUD?

While non-CUD member communities are welcome to contact us, the NWCUD is not actively pursuing additional growth.

How many more staff members will be required, especially when construction begins?

It is not within our operational plan to expand our current staffing needs. NWCUD plans to work closely with and contract expert consultants and fiber network management organizations.

What is the model?

NWFX will build, own, and maintain a FTTP (Fiber-to-the-Premise) open-access network. This network will universally serve every home/business that is currently not connected to a fiber network. The network creates a marketplace for retail ISPs, telehealth providers, 5G providers, enterprise, schools, towns, or other entities. Particularly for retail ISPs, the network will allow users to choose their own service providers, not limited to just one option.

What will I have to pay?

Under our model, you will pay:
Internet service fee + Infrastructure Fee
The infrastructure fee is essential for the CUD to maintain and operate the network. The total cost to the consumer is far below other ISP providers for similar services.

Which towns will get fiber first?

We are planning our project in phases that cross-town boundaries. We are using several factors to decide the order of the phases, while seeking to prioritize those most in need.

How long will it be before the last house on the list gets fiber?

We currently project construction to be 36 months. Workforce availability and supply chain for materials can affect that estimate.

When will we start getting fiber?

It is projected that NWFX will begin construction in 2022.

Is the CUD using public funds to compete with privately-owned companies?

No — under this model, the CUD is not becoming a competitive ISP.

Will there be a surcharge to my bill?

Under our model you will pay:
Internet service fee + Infrastructure Fee
The infrastructure fee is essential for the CUD to maintain and operate the network. The total cost to the consumer is far below other ISP providers for similar service.

What will my internet bill be with fiber?

How do I get my household connected to CUD internet?

You would place an order with a on-network retail ISP. The ISP or contractor from the CUD will then be scheduled to connect your home to the network. The retail ISP will supply all necessary equipment (ONT & WiFi router) to get you connected.

Can I get other services, like VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol?

Depending on the retail ISP, Voice and even streaming video services may be available.

Is the modem provided?

Modems are not needed on a Fiber network. The retail ISP will supply all necessary equipment (ONT & WiFi router) to get you connected.

What are the installation fees?

There are no install fees, upfront costs, taxes, up to 500 ft. (Aerial or underground) Vermont has some challenging geography, extra-long "drops" (connection from the pole to the premise, site specific materials (new conduit), or difficult to access properties may require contributions from property owner.

What are the package options and corresponding fees?

Depends on the retail ISP.

Can part-time residents get seasonal packages?

Depends on the retail ISP.

Where do I sign up?

NWFX will work with the on-network providers to ensure you are notified at the earliest possible time. Look for updates on our social pages and website.

How reliable will the internet be and what will NWFX, or the retail provider do if it isn't reliable?

Fiber-Optic broadband is the gold standard, and it is far less susceptible to weather events (like extreme cold, storms, etc.) and electromagnetic interference. NWFX plans to work with maintenance & operations vendors that can achieve 99.99% or better service connectivity.

WHAT ARE SOME SUCCESSFUL MODELS AROUND THE COUNTRY WHICH FOLLOW MUCH OF THE SAME PATH AS THE NWCUD?

While less common in the US, the model for building an underlying network and allowing ISPs to leverage it for delivering services is growing in interest. Operators like Utopia Fiber, SiFi Networks, and municipalities like the City Of Ammon, ID all operate successful open-access fiber networks.

What does symmetrical internet mean?

Internet connection with upload and download speeds that are the same. With increased demand from smart home & energy efficiency devices, remote working & learning, and telemedicine, upload speed is becoming as important as download speed. Symmetrical connections ensure your upload speeds aren't strained due to high use.

What does 100 Mbps mean? How do I find my internet speed?

What does 100 Mbps mean? How do I find my internet speed?
NWFX provides a speed test on our website. http://nwcud.speedtestcustom.com/

What is "fiber-optic" broadband?

Utilizing light to transfer information, it's the fastest communication technology on the planet. Most current ISP networks operate on copper wire infrastructure that limits the speed and amount of data that can be transferred.

What is "Open Access"?

An arrangement in which one network (publicly owned) is open to several independent service providers to offer services, rather than each provider building their own. Providers benefit from a lower market entry cost, and consumers benefit from competition.

What is a retail ISP?

A residential or small business internet service provider.

Is my home considered underserved?

The FCC definition is any home without at least 25/3 Mbps. (7836 in NWCUD). However, NWFX feels that the benchmark is dated and that any home that doesn't currently have a fiber connection with at least 100/20 Mbps is underserved.

What is dark fiber?

Dark fiber refers to fiber optic cables that are not currently in use. No data is being transmitted.

Why Google Fiber?

There was a solid alignment of ideals, a willingness to be on an open-access network, and they are a highly reputable fiber ISP. Having Google Fiber as our first retail ISP enables NWFX to build the fiber network throughout the district sooner and more cost-effectively.

What is Google Fiber's rates?

Although Google Fiber's pricing is subject to change, they commit to service pricing on par with their other served markets.
More information can be found at https://fiber.google.com/internet/

Will Google steal my data?

NWFX will insist that any on-network provider must commit to protecting the privacy of users and the use of nondiscriminatory network management practices to ensure a high-quality experience for all users.

How much would the cost increase after a year?

Google Fiber does not do promotional pricing with introductory rates.

Am I in a contract once I sign up? What is the catch?

Google Fiber does not do contracts.

Do I need to pay extra for equipment?

All Google Fiber service plans include equipment (Fiber Jack, router, Wi-Fi) at no extra cost. You’re welcome to use your own router with Google Fiber 1 Gig plans. Google Fiber 2 Gig requires the use of the custom Google Fiber Multi-Gig Router to achieve top speeds.

CAN I GET PHONE SERVICE?

Yes, Google Fiber Phone is just like a typical home phone, except your phone service is delivered over the Internet, and it’s powered by Google Voice.

CAN I GET TV SERVICE?

Yes, live streaming TV is available through YoutubeTV, fuboTV, philo, and sling. Whether you’re into live sports, local programming, premium channels, or something specific, live streaming TV services have something for everyone.

What will the regional economic impact be?

With greater accessibility and faster speeds, the sky's the limit: households can connect all of their devices without worry, entrepreneurs have the infrastructure they need to innovate, and governments have additional capacity to address local problems, from growing traffic congestion to managing databases. And this translates into improved economic performance with the creation of more jobs, more innovation, and incentives for additional infrastructure investments and companies relocating or expanding into the area.

How can I help?

Spread the word! If you are interested in being a part of the CUD Governing Board, contact your local selectboard.

Should I get Starlink?

Sure! If available, Starlink is a good solution for those with limited connectivity today. However, when constructed, the NWFX fiber network will provide a far superior level of connectivity.

Is Starlink any good?

Mixed results. Download speeds range from 50-300 Mbps. Upload speeds range from 5-50 Mbps. Uptime can be great and, at times, bad. The satellite receiver does require a wide-open sky. No Trees!

If my town is not a part of a CUD? What should I do?

Contact your local selectboard and let them know you'd like to see your community join a CUD.

WHAT HAPPENS TO LEGACY INTERNET COAX/OTHER NETWORKS ALREADY IN THE AREA?

That infrastructure is not in the purview of the CUD, but it will likely operate alongside the CUD's fiber network for many years to come.

HOW DOES wireless (4G, 5G, etc) and/or satellite compare to a fiber network?

While there are some benefits to a fixed-wireless or satellite connection, primarily a lower initial cost and mobility, those benefits don't outweigh the long term benefits of a FTTP network. A long term investment in fiber provides our CUD with the best option for broadband equity for the next 40-50 year. (Plus, mobile carriers rely on fiber networks for wireless deployment)

Do I qualify for a broadband subsity or reduced rate?

The Affordable Connectivity Program is an FCC benefit program that helps ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more.

The benefit provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Learn More

Is there training availble to become a fiber technician or engineer?

The VT Department of Education and the Vermont Community Broadband Board are hard at work developing programs for careers in fiber telecommunication. The first of these programs are currently being offered at Vermont Technical College.

Is there a way invest or purchase bonds?

Options are being considered but at this time no.