Falmouth Broadband MLP is in the process of exploring different options for the operation, financing, and construction of a $50 million fiber-optic broadband network for Falmouth, ranging from 100% town owned and operated to 100% privately built and operated and every possibility in between.

To that end, Falmouth Broadband MLP issued a Request for Information (RFI) from interested private and public Internet service providers (ISP’s) through its governing body, the Falmouth Municipal Light Board (MLP) on August 9, 2023.

The purposes of this RFI are as follows. (1) Identify qualified entities who are interested in working with Falmouth Broadband, either individually or in partnership with other providers, to deliver high-quality fiber optic based internet access to every residence and business in Falmouth. (2) Learn how the entity would like to participate, such as a partner, investor, builder, operator or any combination of these options. (3) Identify practical and workable business models. (4) Learn what specifically the ISP would bring to the table in all aspects of the development of a fiber optic network, including permitting, the “nuts and bolts” of construction, asset contributions, financing, and other resources. (5) Learn what the respondents’ ideas are for universal service access, service offerings, pricing models and customer service. And (6) learn what the respondents’ ideas are on how Falmouth’s network might be integrated into a regional network.

According to State Senator Susan Moran, “I applaud Falmouth’s efforts to more dependably serve the community through next level broadband.”

Initial responses to this RFI are due on September 5, 2023 and final submissions are due on September 18, 2023.

The full text of the RFI is available to view or download here.

This RFI begins the process of exploring the middle-ground option of public-private collaboration and financing.