N.C. Posts Pole Replacement Program Guidance

North Carolina is seeking to streamline pole replacements to speed broadband deployment, the state’s Department of Information Technology said Monday. The department’s broadband and digital equity division posted final guidance for North Carolina’s pole replacement program. The state broadband office will seek applications for $100 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to reimburse some of a communications provider’s pole replacement costs in unserved areas. The program will launch Feb. 1 and the office plans to offer reimbursements for applications submitted through Dec. 31, 2024. Providers may seek reimbursement for eligible expenses dating back to June 1, 2021, the state said.