Middle Mile as a Catalyst: Municipal Investments for Broadband Equity and Affordability
Reliable broadband is a cornerstone of economic growth, education, and community development in today’s digital age. Our latest guide, Middle Mile as a Catalyst: Municipal Investments for Broadband Equity and Affordability, provides a roadmap for local governments to build a middle-mile network that facilitates affordable and accessible broadband services.
Municipal leaders can use this guide to discover and explore how municipally-enabled, middle-mile, Wide Area Networks can provide last-mile broadband access without bearing the full buildout cost.
Key recommendations explored in Middle Mile as a Catalyst:
- Needs Assessment and Stakeholder Engagement:
- Identify and address gaps in broadband infrastructure, including high costs, outdated tech, and connectivity issues.
- Engage stakeholders at every level to build support and secure funding.
- Appoint an advocate to align community needs with project goals and ensure vendor accountability.
- Consult Experts and Document Assets:
- Utilize industry experts to navigate contracts and ensure clear agreements.
- Document infrastructure assets for project scalability and impact.
- Maintain an inventory of funding sources for middle-mile investments.
- Strategic Procurement and Clear Contracts:
- Implement flexible, outcome-based procurement strategies for tailored solutions.
- Balance progress with funding requirements to optimize resources.
- Establish clear Service Level Agreements, testing protocols, and succession planning to ensure progress towards last-mile broadband objectives.
Middle Mile as a Catalyst equips municipal leaders with the framework to leverage a middle-mile program to deliver affordable broadband services. Dive into the comprehensive guide and begin exploring this innovative approach.
