Broadband for America’s Future: A Vision for the 2020s Gives A Comprehensive Overview of a Problem That We Can Solve

At a time when millions of Americans still do not have access to broadband of any kind, Next Century Cities is a resource for local leaders who are searching for connectivity solutions. Lifting up the voices of local broadband advocates, our work helps to ensure that lawmakers and policymakers understand what is at stake for our member communities, especially those that are still struggling to provide reliable, affordable broadband access for their residents. The Benton Institute for Broadband & Society released Broadband for America’s Future: A Vision for the 2020s. It is a report by Senior Fellow Jonathan Sallet that is sure to bring Next Century Cities’ member municipalities and others a step closer to a shared goal of ensuring that every community has access to high-speed connectivity. Sallet offers a masterful account of the policy landscape while conveying a sense of urgency for broadband infrastructure to be a national priority. His report weaves together policy analysis, impact stories, and thoughtful recommendations, which can be reduced into four main building blocks needed to expand access over the next decade. The report highlights Next Century Cities’ member stories, documenting their ability to overcome unique challenges with creative solutions. 

[Francella Ochillo is Executive Director of Next Century Cities]