Nisqually Tribe

Project:

  • Broadband for unserved residents and mobile data for muni & public safety

Challenges:

  • Two village areas, one lacking any broadband and no incumbents desiring to provide service.
  • Mobile data needed for public safety, public works and other tribal government field staff.
  • Originally planned to apply for a stimulus grant with 100+ mesh Wi-Fi node network for low-cost CPE.
  • No fiber and limited copper between populations, no consistent access to poles, limited staff to maintain.
  • Project budget of under $200,000.

Solutions:

  • Despite writing winning grants, Keenwire suggested their money is better spent directly on infrastructure.
  • Provided multiple infrastructure options for cost and performance comparisons with pros and cons.
  • Co-authored an application for spectrum, Keenwire went to Washington D.C. to meet with the FCC.
  • One of the first EBS licenses granted in many years.
  • Simple and low-cost using WiMAX and Microwave