The promise of a broadband fiber communications network has attracted the interest of CATV and Telco concerns. Various networks and Topologies have been discussed. Cost is a drawback in some of the proposed networks, particularly those networks which require switching. This paper discusses a low cost broadcast tree and branch network which utilizes optical amplifiers to extend the network penetration. Recent work in the development of optical amplifiers suggests that the Erbium fiber amplifier may be compatible with VSB-AM. The characteristics of such an amplifier will be discussed. This scenario allows an orderly transition from present day AM backbone system to the tree and branch fiber architecture. Once the broadband fiber plant is in place new services can be implemented that exploit the broadband nature of fiber.