Blackfoot is investing in our broadband network by replacing and improving existing equipment with advanced network technologies, continuing our multi-year network upgrade that started last year in St. Ignatius. The result? Even more reliable internet and voice services for our cooperative members.
I am happy to announce that network construction will kick off in the Arlee and Charlo areas in spring 2018. Beginning this October, Blackfoot engineers and planners will be working in these communities to determine the best routes for our new network technologies, including some circuit design to your home or business.
Blackfoot has hired the engineering firm Mid-State Consultants to work alongside us in this process. As one of Blackfoot’s trusted and valued partners, please feel free to visit with Mid-State about the project when you see them working in your area.
Below is a list of frequently asked questions that offer more details about this network upgrade project. If you have additional questions, please contact Blackfoot Engineering Supervisor, Jared Jarrett, at 541-5264 or jjarrett@blackfoot.com.
For more about Blackfoot’s latest products and services, please contact our Customer Care Team at 541-5000 or visit bftcomms2b.wpengine.com/MoreAtHome.
Sincerely,
Jason Williams
Chief Executive Officer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Blackfoot’s network upgrade project?
Blackfoot currently offers services over a hybrid network of both fiber optic and copper cables. Some of the copper cables have been buried in the ground for more than 30 years, which is near the end of their useful life. These facilities need to be replaced so that we can continue to deliver reliable, high quality services. This project is good network stewardship and ensures that Blackfoot will continue to be able to offer high quality voice, data and cloud services to its customers for decades to come.
Will this project impact my current Blackfoot services?
No, this construction project will not interrupt or impact any of your current services or your bill. In 2018, Blackfoot will introduce a series of new service offerings with broadband speeds unrivaled by other providers in the area. Look for exciting announcements coming soon!
Why do you need to access my property if I’m not an existing Blackfoot customer?
As the incumbent service provider and a cooperative, Blackfoot is committed to make its services available to every home and business in its service territory. Even though you may not be a Blackfoot customer today, we want to engineer the best possible route to your home or business in the event that you request services from us in the future. Blackfoot will not construct any new facilities on your property without a request for services from you.
Where will you be constructing and when will it begin?
Construction will take place primarily within the city and county road right of ways. Once the engineers designate the best routes, we will begin applying for permits and licenses from the town, county and other districts. After this is complete, we plan to start our fiber project in the spring of 2018. Even though Blackfoot is engineering routes directly to your home or business, we will not construct facilities on your property without your prior approval.
Will you be sending out more information about the project?
Yes! Blackfoot plans to keep you informed throughout the process via email, letters, newspaper ads and community events in the coming months.
We want to hear from you!
Blackfoot’s product development team is interested in hearing from our customers regarding the design of new products and services. If there are communications and broadband services that you would like to subscribe to, please email your suggestions to product@blackfoot.com and a member of our product development team follow up with you directly.