Protecting valuable environmental resources while improving broadband infrastructure

D299 Fiber-Optic Project Construction Monitoring

Spanning 170 miles (274 kilometres) across Highway 299, back roads, small towns, rivers, and mountains, the Digital 299 (D299) fiber-optic project in far northern California will provide high-speed broadband infrastructure to underserved communities in remote areas. However, the fiber-optic line traverses many areas with sensitive environmental resources. Vero Fiber Networks, LLC, called on our environmental scientists to help.

The project area contained diverse and abundant wildlife as well as cultural and historical resources. Our team conducted botanical and wildlife surveys, submitted permit notifications for nearly 400 waterway crossings to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and oversaw environmental permit and reporting requirements. In an area as sensitive, remote, and diverse as Northern California, it was crucial to value environmental resources while also prioritizing safety.

After more than two years, despite challenging weather conditions and a rigorous construction schedule, all conduit and fiber installations were completed. The installed broadband network is now poised to provide high-speed internet connectivity for inhabitants along the D299 corridor.