Next Generation Broadband in Montana

The survey is part of Seattle’s Information Technology Indicators Project, an effort to increase broadband use and technology access across the city.

There’s a myth spreading around in government circles that the private
sector can’t be trusted to deliver vital telecommunications services to our nation’s
communities. Therefore, the solution is–you guessed it–taxpayer-funded,
government-owned telecom networks.

"Everyone deserves fast broadband. I want to burn the red tape that is stopping us for getting there."

While identifying pockets of unserved customers is the focus of the effort, the Commission also has learned of numerous rural schools with limited internet service. Commissioners said extending broadband to schools and other "community anchor institutions" with little or no access to high-speed internet is a priority.

If the politicians falter, they should remember FDR’s words. It’s clear that fiber networks are a natural monopoly and need to be either run directly by the government, or so heavily regulated that it amounts to the same thing.

Increased competition for Internet services will create pressure for lower prices and expanded services.

As council now considers its internet expansion programs, the first question it must first ask itself is whether it can afford to expand internet connectivity. After that, it should ask itself whether it can afford not to.

ITIF Senior Research Fellow Richard Bennett appeared on PBS Newshour last week to discuss high-speed broadband in the United States

The new network, which cost the city about $94,000 up front, and $22,000 annually, will complement a changing atmosphere in downtown San Jose, CIO Vijay Sammeta said. The City Council recently approved curbside dining, an activity that will be greatly enhanced by the public’s ability to access high-speed Internet.

Google says its fiber-to-the-home product provides customers with broadband Internet speeds of 1 gigabit per second — roughly 100 times faster than the average U.S. connection — as well as crystal clear television service.