When people think of New Hampshire, they often think of the first state in the presidential primary cycle. What they don’t think about is how the state is the 23rd most connected state in the country. For some communities, this means that access to a robust broadband connection is well within reach. Others, however, may […]
Where Are They Now: Keene, New Hampshire Read More »
In March 2021, an anonymous Newport resident with a stable internet connection described Rhode Island’s digital divide as a major issue. In the author’s words, I see the effects of Newport’s digital divide every day in my work since the inequity especially affects low-income, Black, Indigenous, people of color, and seniors in Newport. Those in
Taking its place as the southern boundary of New England, Connecticut is home to Yale University, beautiful towns, and the Connecticut River, the state’s namesake. Originally from the Mohegan-Pequot word “Quononoquett” meaning “long tidal river,” the Algonquian people who originally inhabited Connecticut knew the river’s power and importance, something that remains true today. Nutmeggers, as
Bristol’s “All Heart” Attitude is Closing the Digital Divide Across Connecticut Read More »
The lack of broadband Internet access caused residents across the nation to struggle with telework, distance learning, and community development long before the COVID-19 pandemic forced our lives online. The residents in Leverett, Massachusetts, are all too familiar with those challenges. As Robert Brooks, one of three members of the Leverett MLP Board, explained “we
Leverett, Massachusetts: A Case Study in Future Proofing Read More »
Vermont is well known for its rich mountains and lush forests, but its landscape and century-old bridges might not suggest an innovative and unique approach to expanding broadband access. Unlike many municipal broadband models displayed across the country, which often begin with a single city or county developing a network that later expands outward, Vermont
Innovative Intercity Collaborations Foster Improved Connectivity in Vermont Read More »
Nestled in the northeastern corner of the country, Maine is home to picturesque lighthouses and vibrant communities. Maine also faces a unique challenge to closing the digital divide and battling the COVID-19 pandemic: it is the least densely populated state in New England. From Portland to Islesboro, residents have worked together to find ways to
America’s Most Rural State: Connecting Communities Across Maine Read More »
On April 16, 2021, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation establishing the first-in-the-nation requirement for Internet Service Providers (“ISPs”) in New York to offer affordable Internet options for qualifying low-income families. While many ISPs have voluntarily developed their own discounted service programs, some created in direct response to the pandemic, this legislation makes it mandatory for
Broadband impacts every facet of our lives. We use it to telework, distance learn, stay connected to friends and family, and receive critical information from across the globe. It also plays an important role in how we combat climate change. Local officials are using high-speed connectivity to implement programs that help reduce waste and energy
In 2016, the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) directed the Wireline Competition Bureau to submit a State of the Lifeline Marketplace Report by June 30, 2021. This report is intended to provide meaningful insight on how the FCC should continue to administer the Lifeline program. The FCC’s findings will inform decisions to make modernizing changes to
Over three million Americans call Puerto Rico home. That is more than the State of Wyoming, Vermont and the Dakotas combined. Much like any other part of the US, broadband connectivity has been a critical tool for education, healthcare, and government service delivery, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Francella Ochillo, Executive Director of Next Century
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