Bristol, Tennessee, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Brightspeed has filed a lawsuit against the City of Bristol, Tennessee, claiming the Right of Way (ROW) fees imposed on them are discriminatory and unfair compared to their competitor, BTES. The fees, proposed at $0.25 per linear foot, would cost Brightspeed approximately $442,039 annually, potentially hindering their broadband deployment efforts. The company seeks a court ruling to deem these fees unreasonable and has suspended its development plans in Bristol for six months as a result. Brightspeed emphasizes the need for equitable internet access for local residents.
Bristol, Tennessee – Brightspeed, an internet service provider, has initiated a lawsuit against the City of Bristol, Tennessee, in a dispute over alleged discriminatory Right of Way (ROW) fees. The lawsuit was filed in Sullivan County Circuit Court on a Wednesday and claims that Bristol is imposing unfair costs on Brightspeed that are not levied on its main competitor, BTES, the city-owned telecommunications provider.
According to the lawsuit, Bristol proposed a ROW Access Agreement back in January 2023. Under this proposed agreement, Brightspeed would be required to pay an annual ROW fee of $0.25 per linear foot. Based on its current build plan, Brightspeed estimates that this annual fee would total approximately $442,039. The internet provider is currently working on deploying over 100,000 miles of fiber optics to enhance its service, including extending internet access to residents in Bristol.
The lawsuit further alleges that communications from the City suggest they intend to prevent Brightspeed from launching its broadband network unless the annual ROW fee is paid. Brightspeed attempted to negotiate with city officials in March to circumvent these fees, but discussions failed as Bristol reportedly refused to consider the matter further.
Brightspeed claims that the imposed ROW fee violates both state and federal law, citing that it is applied in a non-discriminatory manner and is considered unreasonable. The lawsuit argues that the fee is not connected to any costs incurred by the City due to Brightspeed’s usage of public rights-of-way. This fee structure places Brightspeed at a competitive disadvantage, as BTES does not pay similar ROW fees.
With an investment of around $3 million in broadband deployment so far, Brightspeed has encountered significant setbacks, with development in Bristol halted for the past six months due to the disagreement over the ROW fee. This delay is also impacting service capacity in surrounding areas, including parts of Virginia.
Brightspeed is seeking a court ruling to declare the ROW fee unreasonable and discriminatory, requesting a permanent injunction to proceed with the rollout of its fiber network. Additionally, the company is asking for damages, costs, and reasonable legal fees. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the City of Bristol has declined to comment on the lawsuit because of the ongoing litigation.
In its statements, Brightspeed has described the ROW fee as punitive and a significant barrier to providing essential internet access to residents in Bristol. The company reiterated its commitment to delivering improved internet services and called upon city officials to resolve this issue amicably for the benefit of local families and businesses.
Background Context
This legal conflict arises amid broader discussions about internet accessibility and the competitive landscape among service providers. Many communities across the United States are grappling with similar challenges as they seek to expand broadband infrastructure. Given the crucial role high-speed internet plays in today’s economy, the outcome of this lawsuit could have profound implications for the availability and quality of internet services in Bristol and beyond.
FAQ Section
What is the basis of Brightspeed’s lawsuit against the City of Bristol?
Brightspeed claims that the City of Bristol is imposing unfair Right of Way (ROW) fees that are not applied to its main competitor, BTES. They believe the fees violate state and federal law, are unreasonable, and are a barrier to providing internet services to residents.
How much is Brightspeed required to pay under the proposed ROW Access Agreement?
Under the proposed ROW Access Agreement, Brightspeed would need to pay an annual fee of $0.25 per linear foot, totaling approximately $442,039 based on their current build plan.
What are the implications of the legal dispute for Brightspeed’s operations?
As a result of the ROW fee dispute, Brightspeed has halted its broadband deployment in Bristol for six months, which is also affecting service capacity in parts of Virginia.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Involved | Brightspeed |
| Nature of Lawsuit | Allegations of discriminatory ROW fees |
| Proposed ROW Fee | $0.25 per linear foot |
| Total Estimated Annual Fee | Approximately $442,039 |
| Investment in Bristol | Around $3 million |
| Impact of Dispute | Deployment halted for six months affecting service capacity |
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Additional Resources
- WJHL: Brightspeed Files Lawsuit Against Bristol, Tenn.
- Wikipedia: Fiber-optic Communication
- WJHL: Broadband Expansion Halted in Bristol
- Google Search: Right of Way fees in telecommunications
- WJHL: Dispute Between Brightspeed and Bristol
- Google Scholar: Internet service provider lawsuits
- WJHL: City of Bristol Responds to Brightspeed Lawsuit
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bristol, Tennessee
- WJHL: BTES and Brightspeed Competitive Landscape
- Google News: Brightspeed Lawsuit Bristol
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
