The MetroLab Network is a coalition of mayors, academic leaders, and nonprofit partners who believe that data- and technology-oriented research and innovation will lead to more effective, targeted, adaptive, and creative government and community services. They host an annual conference that centers research and policy solutions in addition to monthly roundtables that tap into the collective knowledge and experience of the MetroLab Network.   

Next Century Cities Executive Director, Francella Ochillo was invited to present at MetroLab’s October 7, 2022, roundtable focused on broadband. Organizers wanted participants to learn about upcoming funding and research opportunities, including partnerships that could help local leaders maximize investments. 

Ochillo explained how Infrastructure and Investment Jobs Act funding could transform local broadband projects nationwide. She encouraged government officials and academic scholars to stay focused on boosting competition, noting that Americans continue to pay some of the highest prices for Internet compared to households in other countries. Additionally, Ochillo reiterated the need to develop data collection methods that inform connectivity benchmarks and sustainable models for the human infrastructure that complements digital infrastructure projects.