I have been reading news reports about the proposed sale of Verizon’s operations in Maine to Fairpoint Communications and appreciate the coverage the Sun Journal has given this important issue. From what I understand, this sale will result in a wider deployment of broadband across our state. As an electrical contractor, that’s important to me and my company.

Like others in the construction industry conducting business in Northern, Central and Southern Maine, we rely on the Internet to communicate with potential employees, our own employees at project sites, engineers, architects, clients, subcontractors and suppliers, sending large documents such as plans and specifications, contracts, drawings, requests for information and other project documentation and communication. Unfortunately, broadband is not available to everyone who we work with, causing delays in communication, decision-making and progress. High-speed Internet connections are critical to our industry and the success of our construction projects.

Fairpoint is committed to adding jobs in Maine and spending millions in technology upgrades. Both these things would make Maine a more attractive place to do business and be a shot in the arm for the state’s economy – but more importantly, Fairpoint’s commitments will help the businesses that are already here in Maine communicate more efficiently with their customers, vendors and employees.

I urge the Public Utilities Commission to approve Fairpoint’s proposal so they can make the investment in Maine. Only then can our industry truly be connected.

Jim Lamson, L&B Electrical Contractors Inc., Lisbon

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