NTIA's Strickling Touts BTOP at Broadband Policy Summit

Speaking at the Pike & Fischer Broadband Policy Summit, National Telecommunications and Information Administration head Lawrence Strickling focused on the Administration's accomplishments and future goals to expand broadband access throughout the country.

He outlined the achievements from the first round of grants awarded through the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program. The first round, completed earlier this year, granted $1.2 billion to 82 projects across the country. In regards to infrastructure installation, Strickling said that the NTIA has learned the difference in needs between those with household broadband connections and anchor institutions in communities with broadband connection. He also stressed the importance of investing grant money in projects that will provide long-term service to consumers at a reasonable rate. Having anchor institutions with broadband provides Americans with the opportunities to gain computer skills and access to educational opportunities. Being able to access this information will stress the importance of broadband connections, and these Americans will insist on having broadband within their homes. Broadband access will also provide employment - Strickling said that "We are rapidly approaching a time where all jobs are going to require computer skills and Internet access."