SXSW 2020
Bringing High-Speed Broadband to Rural America
Description:
The availability and affordability of high-speed broadband has become an essential utility for quality of life, health and work in the 21stcentury. Yet most of rural America is left unserved. Population density has made high-speed broadband feasible in urban areas, as density was determinant historically for early implementation of electric, telephone, cable, water and sewer services. Federal, state and local governments are struggling with how to address the issue for rural areas. Meanwhile, communications technology, including 5G and satellite, are quickly evolving. Public policy determined through the political process is falling behind. This panel will address the challenges and offer possible solutions to this important issue.
Other Resources / Information
Takeaways
- On our current path, cities and rural areas are becoming more isolated/bifurcated with assets such as broadband, poised to create an even wider divide
- Cities and rural areas are allies – they can form symbiotic partnerships of mutual benefit
- Universities can play a unique role as the neutral partner and by researching, developing and deploying technology solutions to address this divide
Speakers
- Karen Lightman, Executive Director of Metro21: Smart Cities Institute, Carnegie Mellon University
- Rebecca Hunter, Communications and External Affairs Strategist, Crown Castle
- Francella Ochillo, Executive Director, Next Century Cities
- Sheri Collins, Acting Executive Director , Governor’s Office of Broadband Initiatives
Organizer
Karen Lightman, Executive Director Of Metro21: Smart Cities Institute, Carnegie Mellon University
SXSW reserves the right to restrict access to or availability of comments related to PanelPicker proposals that it considers objectionable.
Add Comments