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Peter Shumlin on Technology
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Connect VT: $53M for rural broadband & cell service
Two weeks ago, I launched Connect VT, an ambitious plan to deliver broadband and cell service to every corner of Vermont. To get this essential project done, in addition to using federal funds and private investments, I propose spending $13 million from
our two-year capital budget and fully utilizing the $40 million revenue bond capacity of the Vermont Telecommunications Authority. These investments will expedite the build out of fiber optics lines and wireless networks across our state, to every last
mile by 2013, including the most rural areas that for economic reasons are least likely to attract private providers.We will need to address three regulatory areas that have the potential to derail our progress. These are utility pole regulations for
fiber and telecommunication attachments, consolidated land use and environmental permits for the placement of poles, and long-term telecommunication lease agreements to erect infrastructure on state land and buildings.
Source: 2011 Vermont State of the State Address
, Jan 25, 2011
$106M to improve 65 bridges; plus high speed rail
My budget addresses the deteriorating condition of our roads, highways and bridges. We need to bring our transportation network into the 21st century, and to support this effort I am proposing to spend $106 million on improvements to more than 65 bridges
and culverts, and preventive maintenance work on dozens of other structures.Expanding passenger and freight rail in Vermont is also a top priority. My budget invests in rail upgrades to the western corridor, with the goal of returning passenger servic
to Montreal as soon as possible. These investments bode well for Vermont's rail future.
As some states reject federal money for high-speed rail, I am also committed to working in partnership with my colleagues in New England and the Premier of Quebec
with a vision of a high-speed rail line from New York to Montreal, with a spur to Boston. High speed rail is the transportation of our global future, and it is high time that Vermont gets on board.
Source: 2011 Vermont State of the State Address
, Jan 25, 2011
Page last updated: Nov 05, 2011