A Connection For Growth
Throughout history, economic development has always followed, or been driven by, infrastructure. Train tracks, interstate highways and airline routes have all been instrumental in bringing economic progress to various parts of the world.
In today's global, information-driven economy, high-speed Internet access may be the most important piece of infrastructure. That's why Governor Patrick and Lieutenant Governor Murray have made it a priority to bring broadband to North Central and Western Massachusetts.
Working with local advocates and technical experts, the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative developed the MassBroadband 123 fiber-optic network to expand broadband access to more than 120 communities in those parts of the state. The network will provide the necessary broadband infrastructure to attract and support job-creating, private economic investment and allow local governments and institutions to deliver services more efficiently.
This effort is being led by the collaborative’s Massachusetts Broadband Institute. Through the leadership of the administration, the Legislature and the state congressional delegation, we were able to secure $45.4 million in federal stimulus funding to build the network.
One of the things I hear from businesses across the state is the need to be more competitive. By expanding broadband coverage, companies and institutions will be better positioned to succeed in a rapidly growing global market. MassBroadband 123 will extend connectivity to 335,000 households and 44,000 businesses, creating new economic development opportunities and supporting job growth. The network will also provide direct fiber connections to more than 1,000 schools, libraries, public safety and medical facilities.
There is enormous enthusiasm for the project within the business community, as well as the broadband service providers we expect will invest in the network and generate new growth. Our private sector partner and network operator, Axia NGNetworks USA, is committed to investing $35 million to $45 million to operate and expand MassBroadband 123, which will allow any broadband service provider to connect and offer its services. This model will increase the affordability of high-speed Internet to residents and businesses and spur innovation.
We’ve made a point of involving local companies to help us advance the network. Lightower Fiber Networks in Boxborough is providing long-term access to fiber-optic cable that will connect the network to the major Internet connection point in Boston, while a portion of the project’s fiber-optic equipment is being purchased from Century Fiberoptics, a Holliston manufacturing company. Forming this kind of public-private partnership and making strategic investments are key components of Governor Patrick’s plan to extend broadband and stimulate growth.
Innovation drives our economy. It also makes Massachusetts unique and has been important in our ability to weather the recent recession better than other states. Bay State businesses must have the necessary tools to enhance entrepreneurship and remain competitive. Closing the digital divide that separates the western and eastern halves of the state is not just fair and just, but smart economics, and affordable, ubiquitous broadband access is a fundamental building block.
Pamela Goldberg is CEO of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, based in Westborough.
WBJ Web Partners
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