TDS UPDATE
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We have continue to follow up with Scott Brooks, Manager, State Government Affairs at TDS, about where things are with the implementation of their Connect America Funds (CAF) project in our area. As noted in the April 24, TDS Update, In 2017, TDS announced that it was expanding broadband to more than 1,000 locations in Vermont thanks to CAF. An average of $263,655 a year was to be allocated for 10 years to bring most of TDS customers in Vermont to broadband speeds of 25 Mbps down and 3 Mbps Up (25/3). Those in more challenging geographic locations, or in the “pucker brush” as Brooks likes to refer to them, will receive broadband services at lower speeds of 10/1 and 4/1 Mbps.
Brooks stressed that speeds will be consistent, regardless of time of day, consequently, even with lower speeds than desired, the service should be much improved.
Fiber is being wired to the six cabinets that serve Cavendish and Proctorsville along with the central office (Tarbell Hill, Cavendish Pointe, Center Rd., Twenty Mile Stream, Cavendish Gulf Rd and Chubb Hill) it will be a copper over system to the home from the cabinet. If you are within the 3-mile zone of a cabinet (listed above) you will be able to receive 25/3M with slower speed plans still available.
The Tarbell Hill/Cavendish Pointe cabinets were upgraded two years ago and some subscribers, based on their location to the cabinet, are getting fast speeds.
Below are updates on the other areas as of July 31:
• Twenty Mile Stream: Splicing was completed on July 17 and was sent to the deployment team on Monday, July 22. Anticipated completion date for installation is 30 days-end of August, beginning of September.
• Center Rd: The new cabinet has been placed but waiting on it being powered. Once powered, they can install the equipment and configure it. The estimated completion date is Nov/Dec.
• Gulf Rd: Currently with the deployment team, completion is slated for 30-60 days meaning late August to early October.
Not sure how much Internet speed you need? Try one of the online calculators to determine what is appropriate for your home.