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Planning official says broadband contractors have adopted new safety steps after utility hits; county to coordinate broader meetings
Summary
Nick Hoggins of the Trumbull County Planning Commission reported on a recent meeting about broadband construction problems, noting Lumos has begun requiring hydrovac on-site, one-year restoration warranties and capping ticket submissions; he recommended coordinating meetings with other contractors to prevent utility damage.
Nick Hoggins, representing the Trumbull County Planning Commission, told the commissioners during public comment that a recent meeting called by the Holland Township administrator brought together Lumos, the county engineer and other stakeholders to address a string of utility line strikes during fiber construction.
Hoggins said Lumos has implemented two policies effective immediately: requiring hydrovac equipment at digging sites and holding contractors responsible for restoration work with a one-year warranty on lawn repairs. He also said Lumos plans to limit how many utility-location tickets its subcontractors can submit at one time to avoid overwhelming locators and leaving flags in place for long periods.
Hoggins recommended the county coordinate a larger meeting that includes five other companies working on the broadband build so officials can ensure consistent procedures and better communication with townships and the county engineer. He said Lumos is proceeding more cautiously, and that full connection of all houses in the county could take several years.
Ending: Hoggins urged a coordinated effort among the county, townships and all contractors to reduce utility strikes and speed safe completion of fiber-to-the-premises work.
