NCTA Urges Fast FCC Action on Continuing Pole Access Disputes

The broadband industry is dedicated to deploying high-speed networks throughout the country to ensure all Americans can access broadband service. Unfortunately, fair and reasonable access to utility poles remains a key barrier to NCTA member companies seeking to bring broadband to unserved areas. The Federal Communications Commission adopted an important order in February 2026 on pole replacement costs, but certain pole owners seem to be ignoring that order and thereby jeopardizing Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment and other broadband deployments by NCTA members. NCTA—The Internet & Television Association strongly encourages the FCC to provide the relief requested by Comcast, and to direct all pole owners to promptly comply with the February order and all Commission pole attachment rules, so NCTA’s member companies can continue their efforts to connect many more Americans to broadband.