Comcast Explains Plan to Enter Davenport Market for Commercial Clients; Council Asks for Stronger Restoration Guarantees and Keeps Item on Discussion

A right-of-way usage permit with Comcast of Illinois Indiana Ohio Inc. to allow installation, maintenance and operation of a broadband network serving commercial clients was discussed June 4; councilors asked for clearer repair and contractor-responsibility language and kept the item on the discussion agenda.

A resident asked why the permit focuses on commercial clients and not residential service. Chris Nelson, senior director of government affairs for Comcast, said that entering a new market commonly begins with commercial customers to establish the backbone network and that residential service would be evaluated in the next 12–18 months.

Council members and staff raised concerns about construction impacts and restoration. Alderman Joplin and others asked for commitments that the company and its contractors promptly restore streets and private property after construction. Comcast said it would provide a roster of assigned Comcast staff and contractors and would adhere to restoration conditions the city requires; the company offered to commit to a restoration window (for example, 14 days) if the council prefers.

Alderman Burkholder was asked to keep the item on discussion for additional contract-language work with corporate counsel before the council takes final action. Council did not grant final approval at the June 4 meeting.