Broadband Access: We're All in the Middle of Somewhere

[Commentary] Fast Internet access is the critical element in building healthier rural economies that create opportunity and improve quality of life. Here are some ways to get your community focused on the need for speed:

Lack of local leadership buy-in is a deal breaker.
Asking why you need faster Internet today is like asking why you needed electricity when candlelight was the standard 100 years ago.
Broadband connectivity and applications are quality-of-life issues.
Demonstrating usefulness is critical.
Urban density is no longer an advantage.
“Middle of nowhere” mentality is no longer applicable.

[Dr Roberto Gallardo is the leader of the Mississippi State University Extension Service Intelligent Community Institute]