08/30/2024
Media Release August 30, 2024
Contact: Andy Wittwer | [email protected]
Broadlinc to Deploy Internet Connectivity to Oregon Fire Impact Area near Elk, WA
Spokane, WA – August 23, 2024 – In response to the devastating wildfire that ravaged much of North Spokane County in August 2023, Broadlinc, the Spokane Regional Broadband Development Authority, is taking action to restore near-term internet connectivity. The Oregon Fire Impact Area (near Elk, WA) suffered significant loss of structure, leaving hundreds residents without reliable internet, cellular coverage, or ability to utilize essential 911 services.
Recognizing the urgency of restoring connectivity, Broadlinc’s Governing Board approved the deployment of a Cellular On Wheels (COW) tower to provide interim internet connectivity to the community. The project aims to restore internet service to the affected areas as quickly as possible, with plans to extend coverage with long-term infrastructure through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) infrastructure expansion beginning in late 2025.
"This project is a critical step toward restoring essential services and supporting the recovery of our community," noted County Commissioner Mary Kuney and Broadlinc Governing Board Chair. "By deploying the COW, we are addressing the immediate needs of residents while also laying the groundwork for long-term infrastructure improvements."
North Spokane County Commissioner Josh Kerns added, "The Oregon Fire Impact area has been in recovery mode for over a year. The Broadlinc COW deployment is a crucial step in restoring essential services to those affected in this community."
Once the COW is operational, initial service will be delivered by KnightCom through a non-exclusive agreement. Residents can contact [email protected] for pricing and coverage for their location.
City of Medical Lake Mayor Terri Cooper, Chair of the Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) and Vice Chair of the Broadlinc Governing Board, commented, “I couldn’t be happier for the Elk area, help is on the way, and internet connectivity will go a long way in assisting with access to basic essential services and the ability to receive emergency alerts.”
For an overview about how Semi-fixed tower, or COWs, operate, please see the Broadlinc Showcase Video at broadlinc.org/showcase.
About Broadlinc: Established in 2022 by the Spokane County Commissioners, Broadlinc serves as the Spokane Regional Broadband Development Authority. Through strategic partnerships and collaboration, Broadlinc is dedicated to promoting digital equity and fostering the development of broadband infrastructure across Spokane County.
If you’re interested in broadband expansion across Spokane County, we invite you to join the Spokane Broadband Action Team (BAT) which meets on the third Friday of each month at 10am. Internet service providers, CAIs, and other interested residents discuss the projects, opportunities, and challenges of connectivity across the county. Learn more and sign up for meeting reminders at broadlinc.org/bat.
Andy Wittwer
Administrative Services
509.993.1137
