The Tompkins County NY Department of Planning and Sustainability (DPS) has engaged Penfield, NY-based ECC Technologies, Inc. (ECC) to complete a comprehensive broadband-focused project! The ultimate goal is to provide 100% broadband coverage for the County!

What will we be doing?

The project involves the implementation and execution of an infrastructure inventory and BAAT program.

About our inventory process:

Our inventory programs utilize primary and secondary research to identify existing communications assets; including existing fiber routes, central office location, commercial and/or FAA-registered towers, current providers, and other data to support broadband initiatives.

Experienced outside plant engineers conduct physical examinations in the field to identify the location of fiber assets. While working in the field, ECC can often identify certain spectrum usage within defined areas as well as confirm vertical assets which may be available for use by Wireless Internet Service Providers.

About our BAAT Program:

The ECC BAAT program includes proven management components to measure broadband availability AND adoption in a county or community. ECC utilizes strategies, works closely with clients, and supports the use of community institutions to expand participation. Such groups include churches, schools, town and village governments, and civic groups.

ECC clients have won multiple grants at both the state and federal levels. The data from both the inventory and assessment processes have been crucial to fully document the needs and solutions for when submitting applications. This reflects the value of a combined inventory and assessment approach. The data from this work is relevant and creditable for state broadband authorities, the FCC, and the USDA when evaluating grant applications.