We are pleased to share that Next Century Cities is collaborating with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration as it launches its new Connectivity Initiative. This initiative aims to create a comprehensive online assessment tool to assist community leaders identify critical broadband needs and to help them find the resources and knowledge they need to expand broadband infrastructure and access. In particular, this tool will provide a framework of benchmarks and indicators on access, adoption, policies, and community usage.

Next Century Cities is excited to collaborate with NTIA on the this effort. Several NCC member communities have also been selected to partner in the design and development of the online assessment tool, including Ammon, ID; Arvada, CO; Baltimore, MD; Boston, MA; Charlotte, NC; Kansas City, MO; and Seattle, WA.

The Connectivity Initiative was launched in conjunction with the White House’s call to action to close the digital divide. Learn more about the Connectivity Initiative here.