Woolpert's mapping accelerates broadband internet expansion in rural Texas

Woolpert has been contracted to collect high-density Lidar data for more than 17,500 square kilometres of rural Texas to map electrical distribution poles and wires along with surrounding natural and manmade infrastructure. The data will be collected via fixed-wing manned aircraft. The high-density point cloud will be classified and used to construct survey-grade 3D models and provide analysis and engineering for the existing electrical distribution network. This will assist Texan electric utilities in permitting joint-use agreements for broadband expansion and will help accelerate the development and implementation of broadband internet throughout the region.

Woolpert energy market director Mike Battles said this high-density, highly accurate point cloud project streamlines data collection to improve scheduling efficiency, supporting the application of state-of-the-art technology to advance energy operations for utility clients and broadband access for consumers across the USA.

"Woolpert’s airborne Lidar mapping capabilities are innovative in that we can obtain highly accurate survey points of an existing distribution network for areas as large as an entire US state on an accelerated schedule,” Battles said. “With this approach, we are able to drastically improve efficiency and accuracy, and therefore provide a cost benefit for our clients.”

In June 2023, Texas was allocated USD3.3 billion in federal funds - the most for any US state - to expand broadband connectivity. The funds aim to connect about three million households and small businesses, focusing on rural and underserved areas. This initiative will enable all Texans to participate fully in the digital economy.