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CenterFuse Broadband Feasibility Report <br /> PURPOSE OF THE STUDY <br /> The Ellensburg Business Development Authority (dba CenterFuse) retained CCG Consulting (CCG)to <br /> perform the following work: <br /> 1. Conduct a Needs Assessment: Analyze broadband needs and conduct a comprehensive review of <br /> current and future broadband needs and affordability of services, a service gap analysis, future <br /> demand, etc., via industry-accepted evaluation methods. <br /> 2. Conduct Local Broadband Environment Assessment: Identify broadband service providers, <br /> options and costs; assess the broadband environment, detailing the types of services, pricing, <br /> availability and limitations, and compare to target broadband standards; identify potential areas for <br /> partnership among local and state government, and incumbent/competitive providers; perform a <br /> technical evaluation of the,city's existing fiber-optic network. <br /> 3. Provide visualizations and maps to facilitate analysis of the broadband environment, including <br /> the current broadband infrastructure; penetration and usage of broadband services; service <br /> territories; backhaul routes; and other information necessary for clarity. <br /> 4. Recommend broadband strategy: Articulate, by priority, opportunities to support current growth <br /> and long-term community broadband needs, including, as applicable, a broadband partnership <br /> solution. <br /> For this study, CCG undertook market research in the form of surveys, interviews with businesses, and <br /> speed tests in order to understand the current level of broadband service experienced in downtown <br /> Ellensburg and, more broadly, within the Urban Growth Area. CCG partnered with Finley Engineering <br /> to assist in a technical analysis of the broadband in the city. <br /> The purpose statement from the RFP that initiated this study was as follows: <br /> In order to promote business growth and prosperity, CenterFuse seeks to enhance the broadband <br /> capacity of the area for residents, businesses, and visitors. The study should provide a reasonable <br /> assessment of the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities of the broadband within Ellensburg City <br /> Limits and Urban Growth Area (UGA), and a deployment plan that will enable CenterFuse and its <br /> commercial partners to take advantage of these opportunities in conjunction with broadband friendly <br /> public policy development. <br /> Page 3 <br />