Viasat will receive $122.5 million in U.S. federal subsidies through the Connect America Fund, and is tasked with providing internet access to more sites than any of the other funding recipients. The Federal Communications Commission selected 103 internet service providers as part of the program’s phase two auction, which doles out $1.5 billion over the next 10 years to connect more than 700,000 homes and businesses. Viasat was the only satellite operator selected, and has the highest number of locations to connect: 190,595 sites across 20 states. Internet service providers have three years to connect 40 percent of the sites, with full buildout completed by the end of the sixth year.
https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-353840A1.pdf- 224 Posts
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Posted 6 months ago
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Bev, Champion
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Viasat simply isn't affordable for these people they want to serve. It would have to be around 20.00 per month to get these people out here to sign up. Otherwise they just go to Wal Mart, buy a Straight Talk card and, use a phone for minimal internet access, if they really need it. (like kid's school work.)
Only way I afford it here is that my husband works out of state so, makes a lot more than anyone who works locally could. the BEST paying job around here pays 14.50/hr and, that takes a test to qualify for with high math skills and, you have to have a commercial driver's licence and a high school diploma or GED, which many in areas like this don't have.
100/month just doesn't work for people in areas like this.
VeteranSatUser, Champion
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More than likely, though, the service will either need to get better, be cheaper, or both to get anywhere near those numbers.
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Or are they just going to bank this money for the next satellite launch?
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VeteranSatUser, Champion
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I'm sure other rural areas (power companies) they already have a good deal of the infrastructure, will be taking part in this program.
VeteranSatUser, Champion
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Jim16
david lightsey
Jim16