| Complete the Programmatic EIR and expand the permitting “tool kit” to facilitate broadband.Board of Supervisors 2022 |
Description |
In the County's efforts to expand rural broadband, we hear from internet service providers (ISP) that environmental permitting is a substantial challenge to complete projects in a timely and cost-efficient manner. As a result, the Broadband Work Group has led the effort to initiate a countywide environmental impact report (EIR) and a "tool kit" to help remove barriers to completing local "last-mile" projects.
In 2021, the County hired Ascent Environmental, Inc. to complete the Draft Programmatic EIR. The EIR is expected to take approximately 8-10 months to complete and will involve multiple opportunities for public engagement.
Progress Update | |
In the past quarter, staff conducted numerous meetings with EIR consultant (Ascent Environmental) to develop and refine the project scope and project description and review technical studies for EIR; released the Notice of Preparation (NOP) for the EIR; and met with the United Auburn Indian Community (UAIC) to discuss potential impacts to tribal resources and develop mitigation measures to protect potential resources.
Next Steps | |
In the next quarter, staff will receive and review the Administrative Draft EIR (ADEIR) from Ascent Environmental and circulate the ADEIR to the Broadband Work Group and County Departments for review and comment. Finalize Draft EIR and release the DEIR for the 45-day public comment period.
Objectives |