Bill > S06874

This bill requires the New York State Department of Transportation to collaborate with fiber optic utility providers to install, maintain, and manage fiber optic infrastructure along state highways and thruways operated by the New York State Thruway Authority and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Specifically, the bill mandates that any highway or thruway project receiving state funding must include conduits suitable for fiber optic cables or wireless facilities that support broadband services. The bill also ensures that broadband service providers can access these conduits and fiber optic cables on a competitive and non-discriminatory basis, with access fees limited to cost-based rates. The Public Service Commission, in consultation with transportation authorities, will oversee this process to expand broadband access along state transportation corridors. The goal is to improve telecommunications infrastructure by leveraging existing highway rights-of-way, which can help reduce the cost and complexity of deploying high-speed internet services across the state. The bill will take effect 30 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization for preparing necessary regulations.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6874