According to Ars Technica…
A simple policy that could speed up fiber Internet deployment throughout the US is finally on track to become US law. A “Dig Once” measure that requires fiber conduit installation during many federally funded road projects was passed yesterday by the US House of Representatives and is expected to pass the Senate. …
The Dig Once policy “mandates the inclusion of broadband conduit—plastic pipes which house fiber-optic communications cable—during the construction of any road receiving federal funding,” an announcement from [US Rep. Anna ] Eshoo said.
“This will reduce costs drastically and increase access for communities across the country,” making it “easier for states and broadband providers to enter new and underserved markets,” Eshoo said. Conduit would be installed during road projects in cases “where there’s a demonstrated need for broadband access,” she said.
