Community Broadband Network - FAQs for Backyard Utility Poles

Los Alamos County is launching a new Community Broadband Network (CBN) to improve internet access, reliability, and affordability across the County. The open-access network is being designed to enable fiber-to-the-premise (FTTP) service to more than 10,000 homes and businesses in Los Alamos and White Rock, expanding internet subscription options for community members. (Actual construction is expected to begin in the spring/summer of 2026).

To support the network’s design, the County’s contractor, Bonfire Engineering & Construction, has partnered with Hexad to perform utility field data collection. This field work will assess Department of Public Utilities' utility poles and is expected to take place from July 28 through September 2025.

If your property has a utility pole in the your backyard and Hexad needs to access it, you will receive a door hanger with the date and time window when crews will need access to your backyard.

Below are answers to some the most frequently asked questions specific to backyard assessment that needs to occur for the CBN design.

Thank you for your cooperation and assistance.

Why do you need access to my backyard?

We are conducting aerial fielding and data collection on Department of Public Utilities' utility poles to enable the Los Alamos Community Broadband Network. Many utility poles are located in backyard utility easements, and access is necessary to inspect, measure, and gather data to ensure the design is completed correctly.

What kind of work will be done?

The work may include:

Visual inspection of utility poles and attached equipment

Taking photographs and measurements

Recording data on pole height, condition, and clearance

This is part of design planning only—no installation or physical modifications will occur during this visit.

Will you notify me before accessing my backyard?

Yes. Notices will be delivered to each property via door hangers and the County will issue press releases. The Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities will send courtesy reminders by text, phone or email for customers with current contact information on their accounts who haven’t opted out of such communications.

Will workers enter my home or interact with pets?

No. Workers will only access outdoor areas where utility poles are located. They will not enter your home or any enclosed structures. Please secure pets and keep gates unlocked to ensure safety for both your animals and the field staff.

Do I need to be home during this work?

No. You do not need to be home, as long as unobstructed access to the utility pole is available. Please make sure any gates are unlocked on the scheduled day.

How long will the workers be on my property?

Typically, workers will be on-site for 15–30 minutes per pole, depending on the complexity of the site.

What days and hours will work be conducted?

Work could take place any day of the week, typically Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.; however, some work may be scheduled on weekends to ensure timely completion of the work.

Who is performing the work?

The work is being conducted by Hexad, a subcontractor working for Bonfire Infrastructure Group. At the November 19, 2024, Los Alamos County Council meeting, the Council awarded two contracts to Bonfire to; a) Design and build a County-owned Fiber-to-the-Premise (FTTP) open access network to every residence and business (10,000+ locations) in Los Alamos County for $35 million and; b) Manage the FTTP open-access network for $15.9 million over 20 years.All personnel will carry identification.

Will there be any damage or changes to my property?

No. This is non-invasive survey work. No digging, construction, or physical modification of your property or landscaping will occur.

What if I have concerns or need to reschedule access?

For concerns or to reschedule, you can contact the Bonfire project team at 720.507.9005. Please reach out at least 24 hours in advance to coordinate any special access needs.