Central Coast Advocates for 'Dig Once, Connect Twice' Policy to Enhance Broadband and Infrastructure
A letter to the editor in the Paso Robles Daily News advocates for a "dig once, connect twice" policy on the Central Coast to integrate broadband infrastructure with other public works projects. The author, Jordan Berry, argues that reliable broadband should be considered a fundamental utility, on par with roads and public safety. California is currently developing an open-access middle-mile broadband network, with over 8,200 planned network miles across all 58 counties by August 2026. The proposal suggests that state and local agencies should be mandated to coordinate broadband installation with existing projects like highway repairs and utility upgrades that require excavation. This approach aims to maximize efficiency and reduce costs by avoiding redundant digging, ensuring that multiple public needs are addressed simultaneously during construction.
