Description
The City of Worcester’s Department of Innovation and Technology is seeking industry input on how to design, finance, and operate a city‑wide fiber‑to‑the‑premises (FTTP) broadband network that provides universal, high‑speed connectivity, supports digital‑inclusion, and enables smart‑city applications. This RFI is purely informational; no contract is guaranteed, and the City will not provide construction capital. Respondents must detail technical designs, deployment methods, service models, financing approaches, and partnership structures, emphasizing least‑invasive installation, open‑access architecture, and affordability for underserved residents.
• Gather technical, operational, and financial concepts for a full‑city FTTP build‑out.
• Emphasize non‑invasive construction (no directional boring, no existing drain pipe use) and shadow‑conduit planning.
• Propose financing models (private equity, debt, grants) and potential revenue‑sharing or lease arrangements, as the City offers only in‑kind support.
• Highlight digital‑inclusion strategies, open‑access frameworks, and integration with municipal IoT/smart‑city services.
• Provide company background, past FTTP experience, and proposed partnership structures.