Broadband becomes necessity for economic development in rural areas

Pocahontas County (WV) does not lack for natural beauty, clean air and water or a thriving tourism industry. Its challenging ingresses and egresses are major attractions for bikers, but cause major difficulties for exporting and importing goods. The equalizer for economic development in rural areas is a high-speed fiber-optic broadband, according to Mike Holstine, business manager at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO).

Holstine and NRAO hosted the second Broadband Summit, which drew Internet providers and users to what is arguably the most high-tech place in the state. During the day-long event, Holstine listed the number of ways people now rely on the Internet for entertainment, as well, including super resolution high-definition television, high-quality, two-way video calls, advanced online shopping (auctions), advanced work from home, advanced online college courses, online medical and even home and pet monitoring. Fast Internet, he said, ranks sixth on the list of a potential homeowner’s needs, above parking, television, outdoor recreation and workout facilities, and adds $5,000-$6,000 in value to homes.