The deadline is nearing on a request for proposals for wireless broadband service in a large portion of Delaware.
The state is seeking to reduce the number of broadband deserts in the state. The deadline is Oct. 4. The demand for broadband is growing with homes, business and farms in need of high-speed access.
While Delaware has a robust broadband system in the northern part of the state and in some municipalities to the south coverage is spotty in many areas.
The Delaware Department of Technology and Information estimates that 127,700 homes and businesses in rural Sussex and Kent counties cannot receive broadband service.
The department will provide funding for startup costs of a defined service area but will not provide any funding toward operations or maintenance of the facilities and broadband network.
The department will seek bids from firms that will use the state funds to construct and launch the network with a commitment to operating and maintaining the network, at their own cost and risk, for at least seven years
The state will own the equipment during the seven-year period but will turn over the equipment if the company continues to operate the system past that time.
. Further information can be obtained from DTI_Vendorservices@state.de.us.
