2024 - Present
The City's Broadband team halted promotional efforts for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) as funding expired. However, staff continue exploring digital equity and inclusion efforts such as digital literacy training and computer donations.
Above and below ground asset inventory efforts have been completed.
2023
The City's Broadband team continued to partner with Assurance Wireless (T-Mobile) to issue free mobile devices to residents eligible under the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The Digital Inclusion, Equity, and Broadband Project team looks forward to participating in additional opportunities to connect our community with improved broadband access.
In August 2023, the City of Fairfield became a local government affiliate for the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA). The group is comprised of digital inclusion practitioners, advocates, and supporters working with communities to advance digital equity.
On October 3, 2023, the City Council approved a proclamation recognizing Oct 2-6, 2023 as Digital Inclusion Week.
On December 13, 2023, the National Digital Inclusion Alliance recognized the City of Fairfield as a Digital Inclusion Trailblazer for its broadband efforts.
City above and underground broadband related asset inventory efforts are underway. City staff are currently moving this initiative forward and will provide further updates as they occur.
2022
In June 2022, city staff presented an update on the findings of the Broadband Action Plan, which included potential business models and associated financial analysis. The City Council provided guidance and approved a technical advisor, City's above and underground broadband related asset inventory, and collaboration with County, non-profits, and private entities to support Solano County's Digital Equity initiatives.
In October 2022, the City hosted the first Get Connected Day to help eligible residents to get free or low-cost internet services and devices.
2021
In May 2021 City Council held a public hearing and first reading of ordinances designed to establish regulations governing wireless telecommunication facilities, Small Cell design and deployment standards, and established a "Dig Once" policy to protect investment in street paving, guttering and installing underground conduits for fiber optic cable.
Also in May 2021 City Council approved a change to amendment to the Broadband development plan (Broadband Action Plan) to assist the City to analyze the option of establishing a city owned utility broadband network that would expand access to high-speed internet across the community.
In August 2021, as part of the Broadband Action Plan, the city launched an online survey to assist in the development of a blueprint for increasing options for broadband service throughout the community.
2020
In August 2020, Magellan delivered the Broadband Development Plan, a report providing a vision for network infrastructure and services to drive investment, enabling the City to fully capitalize on that investment, and meet Fairfield’s operational needs. The vision addresses major elements of Fairfield’s plans and policies and builds on its municipal assets and operations.
In October 2020, the city council received the Citywide Broadband Plan and Options.
2019
The City of Fairfield considered a citywide broadband plan to address internal operational needs, support economic development and business attraction, and retention, and improve consumer choice for residents.
In September 2019, the City Council authorized an agreement with Magellan Advisors to develop a citywide broadband plan and supporting ordinances to facilitate and address 5G/Small Cell implementation within the City of Fairfield.
