The FCC says it will hold what it calls a “reverse auction” to provide nearly $2 billion over 10 years to expand high-speed Internet access to rural areas that aren’t currently served.
It’s the first time the FCC will use an auction to allocate Connect America Fund support for broadband and voice services in rural areas. The FCC says the “reverse auction” – to be underway in 2018 – will enable the agency to expand rural broadband and voice services at a lower cost and to maximize the investment’s value.
The FCC has invited comment on bidding procedures for the auction, including how bidders qualify to participate, how bids are to be submitted, and how the FCC determines winners and support amounts.
Source: brownfieldagnews.com