Put Broadband money into local networks

[Commentary] Directing money to non-local carriers whose business models do not work in underserved areas is a risky investment for the companies and for taxpayers. Fortunately, local networks have sprung up all over the nation. Empowering local networks, via the stimulus bill and long-term policy, makes sense for job-creation and economic growth, as well as national security. The Internet grew out of the Pentagon's need for a decentralized communications network -- Arpanet -- capable of withstanding a nuclear strike on key cities. Funding local networks protects rural communities from the weaknesses of non-local networks, empowers local self-reliance, creates more competition and makes for a more secure Internet overall. This is smart broadband policy, and it's long overdue.

(Wally Bowen is executive director of the Mountain Area Information Network in Asheville, and a former member of the NC Rural Internet Access Authority.)