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Cranston committee hears residents' complaints over Verizon broadband grant, questions defective notice and grant targeting
Summary
Residents on Camden Lane and nearby streets told the works committee they received defective notice and that a subsidized broadband grant appears aimed at areas without service. Verizon’s representative said the state selected areas; council members pressed for proof and proposed a resident meeting before final action.
Residents and council members pressed Verizon and the city Thursday over a petition to install conduit and hand holes along Camden Lane and neighboring streets as part of a federally subsidized broadband buildout. "The notice went to Cranston, Massachusetts," said John Paglerini, who told the committee the mailed notice omitted this meeting’s date and time and that his street already has Cox Cable and T‑Mobile service.
Andrew Bourne, another resident, said a Verizon engineer had told residents the company would use less‑invasive construction methods but that Verizon staff later backtracked; he also raised concerns about erosion controls for a nearby wetland and a traffic management plan for a narrow 22‑foot roadway.
Verizon representative Ross Biladoo told the committee the project is part of a state‑directed build plan intended to reach lower‑income or lower‑served communities. "Those areas are selected by the state," Biladoo said, adding that the state gave Verizon direction to pursue the project. Councilmembers repeatedly requested documentary proof that the state had flagged this neighborhood as eligible and some urged a community meeting so Verizon can explain construction methods and timing directly to residents.
Procedurally, the solicitor told the committee there is no legal requirement under state law or local ordinance for Verizon to notify abutters; any notice the company provides is a courtesy. Several council members said that courtesy broke down here. Vice President Hoyan moved to deny the petition during debate; the transcript records a roll call and states, "Motion is denied."
After extended discussion, some councilmembers suggested tabling or continuing the matter and requiring Verizon to meet with residents and show documentation of how the state targeted the location. The committee also asked public works to report whether the proposed construction would meet best management practices for wetlands and a traffic mitigation plan for narrow streets.
Next steps: Verizon was asked to provide documentary proof of state selection criteria and grant eligibility and to meet with residents in a properly noticed community meeting; public works will review erosion controls and traffic management plans and report back.
