In 2019, Brownsville, Texas, faced a significant challenge with two-thirds of its households lacking broadband access, making it one of the nation’s “worst-connected cities,” according to the National Digital Inclusion Alliance. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this issue, leaving many residents unable to work remotely. In response, the city’s new mayor, along with local advocates, utilized pandemic recovery funds to create a public-private partnership aimed at establishing a “middle-mile” network. This initiative is crucial for improving internet connections and fostering competition among service providers.
Brownsville’s approach is highlighted in the recently published book, “Bridging the Digital Divide in the U.S.: Planning Innovative State and Local Approaches,” edited and co-authored by researchers from Cornell University. The book examines why numerous rural and disadvantaged urban areas continue to be “digital deserts,” despite significant federal subsidies aimed at promoting universal access. It also showcases how community leaders are effectively navigating various policy and market challenges to better serve their residents.
Understanding the Digital Divide
The editors of the book, including Mildred Warner, a professor of global development, emphasize the essential nature of high-speed internet access for social and economic inclusion. “Universal broadband access has increasingly become a matter of public interest, and in the absence of market solutions, communities are leading the way,” they state.
Warner, who directs the Local Government Restructuring Lab, shared insights during an interview with the Chronicle. She noted, “Many people do not understand that there are individuals living without internet access, but between 24 million and 42 million Americans do.” For those without connectivity, the need to travel to libraries or other locations for internet access can be both inconvenient and costly, ultimately hindering full participation in society.
When discussing the barriers to connectivity in areas like Brownsville, Warner identified key factors: “Money, market capture, and lack of political will.” Many regions with limited demand or significant distances from infrastructure have been overlooked by large internet service providers. This includes rural areas, low-income communities, and specific demographics such as older adults.
Strategies for Improvement
To address these challenges, Warner advocates for policies that acknowledge the need for universal service, promote competition, and support local initiatives. She suggests that funding can stimulate both supply and demand for internet services. “Subsidies can support community initiatives, and more accurate data can help identify internet deserts,” she explains.
The book outlines successful strategies employed by various communities. For instance, Brownsville conducted thorough research to understand its connectivity needs and existing coverage. This data was instrumental in advocating for local solutions, especially in a state like Texas, where municipal broadband initiatives face legislative hurdles. The involvement of mission-driven internet service providers has also proven essential in this process.
Other regions are also making strides in bridging the digital divide. Minnesota has implemented a flagship program that supports hundreds of communities, serving as a model for other states. Colorado’s focus on middle-mile networks and Maine’s establishment of Broadband Utility Districts further illustrate innovative approaches. Notably, initiatives in indigenous communities, such as the Choctaw Nation in Oklahoma, showcase how local leadership, supported by state and federal policies, can lead to successful connectivity solutions.
As federal policies evolve, the outlook for communities lacking broadband access remains a pressing concern. Warner highlights three critical components to achieving digital inclusion: access, affordability, and adoption. “When all three are covered, you can integrate internet into everyday life and work,” she states.
While Congress allowed the Biden administration’s Affordable Connectivity Program to expire in spring 2024, the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program, funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, aims to connect every American to high-speed internet through a $42.45 billion federal grant initiative. Despite challenges, including the recent decision to allow slower satellite service, funding remains available to assist states and localities in their efforts.
The insights shared in this book underline the importance of innovative planning at state and local levels to help communities effectively bridge the digital divide. With coordinated efforts and supportive policies, achieving universal connectivity in the United States is within reach.
