NCTA Disputes Google and Verizon Criticism of ASAP Pole-Attachment Plan

NCTA defended its "Accelerated and Safe Access to Poles" plan against criticism from Google Fiber and Verizon (see 1803060030 and 1803140060). "The ASAP Proposal is a balanced, comprehensive proposal that meets the Commission’s goal of accelerating the process by which broadband providers are able to attach to utility poles in a manner that reflects the legitimate interests of all parties," said the cable group's filing Wednesday in docket 17-84. "Google advocates a regime in which a new attacher would have near total control over the network facilities of existing attachers with no obligation to take serious responsibility for its actions. And Verizon simply appears resistant to any changes that would require it to process applications more quickly." Verizon replied by email: “There’s a growing consensus that a real one touch make ready approach would go far in spurring broadband deployment. NCTA has been consistent in its efforts to fight this approach and maintain the existing levers to delay or prevent competitive deployment. We hope the FCC will see these efforts for what they are.” Google didn't comment. An Incompas filing Thursday on a meeting with Wireline Bureau officials voiced support for the one-touch, make-ready proposals of the FCC's Broadband Deployment Advisory Committee.