Page 8 - Louisiana

See T
The way I
it
he holidays are coming soon, and I hope everyone is preparing to enjoy the seasons with family and
friends. As they quickly approach,
we must not forget that Louisiana
is undergoing many infrastructure improvements. The new Broadband installation is one of the improvements that has everyone’s attention. As many of us work through the beginning phases of this project, we have already noticed some roadblocks for all parties involved.
After participating in many discussions and with multiple stakeholders involved in this project, it seems everyone has the same mission. Although each of us plays a different role in this massive undertaking, the focus is still on preventing damage
to existing utilities. As many people discuss this issue, I hear the majority voicing the same concerns. Timeframe and money seem to drive this entire project.
In this rush to get infrastructure installed, many of our local citizens are feeling the effects. This impact will leave a long-lasting impression on the communities that get fiber installed. Even with all the distractions, I hope that everyone can take the time to remember that no matter what role you play in this project, your actions impact others directly. Soon we will
be in the busiest part of this build and from the words of many associated with this project, please remember communication is key!
The most common statements that I have heard are, “I wish we had more of a notice” or “we didn’t know about this build until we received the 811-ticket notification.” Not enough notice to prepare staff for the demand is a very common statement also mentioned during the meetings. Many of us are feeling the impact and trying to make a difference. Let us all try to communicate more.
Start the gift of giving by increasing the notice of the intent to install fiber in rural communities. Submit the 811 tickets for the installation and meet all state requirements. Submit your tickets in a manner that allows you to install your utility but does not put a burden on the existing utilities. When in doubt please contact the Louisiana 811 Notification Center and someone can give you free training on how to submit tickets correctly and efficiently. Submitting a ticket incorrectly puts
a tremendous burden on the system and results in downtime. Let’s face it, downtime means you have lost money and productivity. This is a bad result for everyone involved in this broadband build.
Once the excavator has done their part in communicating properly and all
the correct tools in the process have been utilized, we ask that all utility operators, large or small, increase
the communication and follow all the processes and laws that have been put in place by our predecessors.
Happy Holidays and Best Wishes to all.
“I wish we had more of a notice”
By Billy Forest Manager - Damage Prevention Louisiana 811
6 • Louisiana 811
2024, Issue 4