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For Immediate Release: 3/14/2019
John B. Rhodes, Chair
Contact: James Denn | James.Denn@dps.ny.gov | (518) 474-7080
19021/16-M-0330
March 14, 2019
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PSC Acts to Spur Rollout of Next-Generation Wireless TechnologyAction Provides Industry With Tools and Process to Advance Introduction of 5G Technology to Create Thousands of Jobs in New York |
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ALBANY — The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) today established a new process to make it easier and less costly for telecommunication companies to attach state-of-the-art wireless communications facilities to existing utility poles. As a result, wireless companies will be able to improve broadband capabilities and roll-out of the new generation of cellular mobile communications that will provide greater data service functions, higher system capacities, and better device connectivity.
“This decision is timely and necessary in order to deploy the most useful wireless solutions for New Yorkers as fast and effectively as possible,” said Commission Chair John B. Rhodes. “And it is in full accord with Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s initiative to expand broadband coverage throughout the state.”
Wireless carriers say they are on the cusp of deploying their next generation of wireless networks, known as 5G, and access to poles is essential to that deployment, as well as to improving coverage and capacity for existing 4G networks. However, without the certainty of a clear regulatory framework, the wireless industry and the consumers it serves have been left with a patchwork of inefficient procedures regarding the right to attach these facilities to poles, which has stalled wireless deployment.
The wireless industry petitioned the Commission to ensure wireless attachments receive the same just, reasonable, and non-discriminatory access as their wireline counterparts. With regulatory certainty, the wireless industry predicts New York State would see thousands of jobs created as a result of the rollout of 5G technology, as well as an economic boost valued at more than $17.3 million. Without action by the Commission, the industry says 5G network deployment and investment in New York would lag the behind other states that have taken steps to improve the pole attachment process.
To encourage wireless development, the Commission: established an interim rate methodology for wireless pole attachments; established timelines for entering into access agreements, completing the permitting and make-ready review processes; and, extended the established dispute resolution process to wireless attachment applicants. Further, the Commission pledged to move forward with consideration of other improvements to further streamline the process by which wireless companies can attach equipment to utility poles, including a potential one-touch-make-ready process.
Industry members design, build, own, monitor, and maintain small cell and distributed antenna system networks in New York. These networks are constructed and used by Federal Communications Commission licensed wireless carriers to serve the public in many areas of the State.
Today’s decision may be obtained by going to the Commission Documents section of the Commission’s Web site at www.dps.ny.gov and entering Case Number 16-M-0330 in the input box labeled "Search for Case/Matter Number". Many libraries offer free Internet access. Commission documents may also be obtained from the Commission’s Files Office, 14th floor, Three Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12223 (518-474-2500). If you have difficulty understanding English, please call us at 1-800-342-3377 for free language assistance services regarding this press release.
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