Could 5G close the digital divide between urban and rural communities?

In trying to push 5G to rural areas, telecommunication companies say they are faced with high costs to install infrastructure and not enough customers to defray those costs. Companies believe they would need to charge unreasonably high rates in order to cover their costs, which would likely mean fewer subscribers. If the costs of investing in 5G infrastructure to help roll the technology out nationwide are too burdensome, experts have a few ideas on how to help bear those costs, including using partnerships with local governments and encouraging carriers to work together. Former Gov Jack Markell (D-DE) said public-private partnerships (P3s) could be a good way to stimulate 5G activity in rural communities, although that represents a departure from the federal government’s position that leaders should be “clearing the way for innovation” and letting the private sector lead the way. A state’s public service commissions, which regulate public utilities’ rates and services, are an opportune place to start. Markell said if commissioners can be convinced of the need to modernize and upgrade communications networks, they could help ease the way forward.