Key Takeaways:
– New York’s ConnectALL program promises to boost digital equity.
– The initiative is set to disburse $1.3 billion in public funds, targeting broadband expansion.
– It aims to connect all New Yorkers to high-speed internet by 2030.
– Bronx, a borough lagging in broadband access, stands to benefit enormously.
– Program’s funding recipients need to have a strong record of cross-sector service delivery.
– Fiber optic cables are prioritized as they aid efficiency, reliability, and resilience against extreme weather conditions.
In the digital era, where online connectivity governs essential aspects of life, New York State is prepared to take bold measures to reduce the digital divide. Through the ConnectALL program, the state is committing to disburse $1.3 billion in public funds, including $665 million federal funds, dedicated solely to broadband expansion in unserved and underserved regions.
Bridging the Digital Gap
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, broadband connectivity has emerged as a necessity, not a luxury. The crisis accentuated our reliance on the internet, be it for remote work, virtual learning, or maintaining social links during times of lockdown. With this context, ConnectALL’s goal to facilitate internet access for all New Yorkers by 2030 gains critical importance.
As the state gears up to call for bids from Internet Service Providers (ISPs), it is crucial to ensure that the chosen partners have a proven track-record in delivering such services to diverse audiences. Past performance in exceeding their benchmarks for service delivery must act as a primary selection criterion.
A Boon for the Bronx
ConnectALL could be a significant turning point, particularly for the Bronx. Current statistics reveal that about 38% of Bronx residents lack a home broadband connection, an alarming figure when compared to the citywide average of 29.5%. With ConnectALL in place, Bronx inhabitants can leverage the manifold advantages the internet offers, from economic opportunities to educational accessibility and much more.
Learning from Past Lessons
Past experiences, however, necessitate a degree of caution. Instances of unkept promises by ISPs disrupt the ultimate aim of equitable access. A remarkable example of such fallacy is the 2016 merger of Charter Spectrum, the state’s largest cable provider, with Time Warner Cable. Despite being approved on the condition of establishing broadband connections for 145,000 households, Charter failed to fulfill the conditions. Noting this lack of accountability, the state, in 2018, came close to revoking the company’s license.
Prioritizing Type of Internet Connection
In addition to cost, the type of internet connection plays a pivotal role in internet access. The ConnectALL program is focusing on offering an expanded coverage via fibre optic cables. This ultra-modern communication infrastructure promises efficient and reliable connectivity, while also being more resilient to extreme weather conditions.
As New York State readies to invite and select program bids in the coming spring, the objective must be to ensure the ConnectALL program serves its true purpose – debunking the digital divide. With this aim in mind, the state is set to make its initial grant awards by the end of the year. Amid this transformative internet era, it is high time to secure affordable, reliable and high-speed internet connections for all New Yorkers and create a model for other states to emulate.