Washington, D.C. (June 13, 2012) – The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), the leading association representing the manufacturers and suppliers of high-tech global communications networks, applauded President Obama’s executive order to accelerate broadband infrastructure deployment.  TIA also stressed the importance of a provision in the order, which is expected to be officially announced tomorrow, directing the Department of Transportation to develop “dig-once” policies, building upon Rep. Anna Eshoo’s proposed Broadband Conduit Deployment Act.

Rep. Eshoo said, “Broadband networks are critical to our country’s economic success by facilitating job creation, new business growth, and connectivity to important Internet services, such as online classrooms, health IT, and smart grid technology.   Much like my ‘dig once’ proposal, this Executive Order will help bring broadband to underserved communities nationwide and with limited federal investment.  This is a common-sense idea, and I salute the Administration for taking action.”

TIA President Grant Seiffert commented, “Timely access to federal lands, buildings, and highways is vital to reaching underserved areas and to deploying the broadband infrastructure of tomorrow.  In particular, the development of ‘dig-once’ policies by the Department of Transportation is a common-sense initiative that will greatly reduce the costs of deploying broadband infrastructure.

“A large portion of key “middle-mile” telecommunications networks – including the backhaul networks that connect wireless cell towers – run along highways,” Seiffert continued.  “The Federal Highway Administration has found that 90 percent of the cost of deploying fiber-optic cable along roadways is associated with digging up and repairing the road, yet deploying broadband conduit during construction adds only 1% to the cost of highway projects.

“While many Members of Congress and government officials had a role in this effort, we want to thank President Obama for his strong support, and Rep. Eshoo for her continuing leadership.  Along with our membership of high tech manufacturers, TIA looks forward to working with DOT on the development of ‘dig-once’ policies.”

About TIA
The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) represents manufacturers and suppliers of global communications networks through standards development, policy and advocacy, business opportunities, market intelligence, and events and networking. TIA enhances the business environment for broadband, mobilewireless, information technology, networks, cable, satellite and unified communications. Members’ products and services empower communications in every industry and market, including healthcare, education, security, public safety, transportation, government, the military, the environment, and entertainment. Visit tiaonline.org for more details.