By Brian Donoghue
The University of Pittsburgh hosted the Pennsylvania Broadband Symposium, a virtual convening where regional, state, and local digital equity leaders gathered to discuss the future of connectivity statewide. These critical discussions were particularly timely in light of the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and NTIA’s Notice of Funding Opportunity (BEAD NOFO, Middle Mile NOFO, Digital Equity NOFO).
Following a welcome from the University of Pittsburgh’s Vice-Chancellor Mark Henderson, NTIA Chief of Staff Aadil Ginwala offered opening remarks. Ginwala gave a big-picture perspective on the opportunities created by this unprecedented funding and provided guidance for local advocates looking to best position their regions, highlighting the importance of mapping regional connectivity. As Ginwala rightly noted, “nobody knows the locality better than the people there.”
The symposium panels provided a deep dive into policy and community needs and action. Pittsburgh’s director of Innovation and Performance Heidi Norman spoke about her city’s willingness to be creative in developing partnerships with local community organizations that could help to expand access and increase adoption. Norman also articulated the critical need for clear organizational structures and foundational principles/goals that are agreed upon by all participating entities for successful partnerships to scale.
In closing remarks, former FCC Commissioner Rachelle Chong reflected on her experience leading the earliest successful community connectivity mapping through the California Broadband Task Force in the mid-2000s. Commissioner Chong’s most direct advice to Pennsylvania communities was to ensure that access, adoption, and affordability are all central in developing regional or local plans.
Next Century Cities applauds University of Pittsburgh’s initiative and leadership in bringing together so many community leaders to share essential perspectives. Every discussion is worth watching on the event’s site if you have the time. If you have interest in putting together similar conversations in your community, please reach out to us at Next Century Cities.
