Governor Announces Favorable Broadband Expansion Permit Policy

Gov. Jim Justice announced September 17, 2018, that the Federal Highway Administration has verified that federal law allows the West Virginia Division of Highways to permit broadband expansion and other development projects on state right of way without collecting a fee.

“This is a major step forward as we expand West Virginia’s broadband network to better serve our state’s businesses and citizens,” Gov. Justice said in a statement.

All Dig Once permit requests are now being processed by DOH utility managers in accordance with state law (HB 4447) that was passed earlier this year. The DOH and Broadband Enhancement Council are currently working together to finalize development of standard forms, procedures and right of way access agreements that will be implemented under the new Dig Once Policy.