Viewpoints
California is aggressively attacking the digital divide with investment and a belief in broadband. Here’s why that matters.
By Brad Randall, Editor at Broadband Communities
As America’s most-populated state, California still has a population density lower than Ohio, despite having a land area nearly four times larger.
When we think of the scenes that define the Golden State, we are not incorrect to conjure up images of Beverly Hills, the iconic San Francisco skyline, and the marinas of San Diego. But let us be reminded. This same state hosts the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada, vast stretches of the Mojave Desert, towering redwood forests, and expanses of irrigated farmland that stretch beyond the eye can see.
California’s population is diverse, and so is California’s geography.
In addition to having some of America’s largest metro areas, the state also has millions of rural residents, with almost 6 percent of the state’s population living in communities with less than 5,000 residents, according to the Public Policy Institute of California.
The challenges of connectivity in California’s rural communities are obvious. But the solutions are not.
Unphased, the state has stepped up, accommodating providers with streamlined processes and funding.
Feedback has been positive. In the realm of California’s crucial middle-mile network, building out fiber broadband arteries to all corners of the state, California’s partners — like Lumen Technologies — have reported good things.
In California’s urban areas, committed advocacy groups, like Chinese for Affirmative Action (CAA), call attention to how neighborhoods in the Bay Area continue to struggle with digital divides.
Lagging and spotty service options that plague areas of L.A. County gain media attention and garner public outrage, signifying not just a state government, but a population that has bought into broadband.
More providers at the table
Political battles rage over individual policies in Sacramento. Meanwhile, private ISPs continue to double down on their commitments to serving California’s residents.
There’s more money at play, and more providers at the table.
At BBCMag.com, we’ve covered some of the solutions and startups attempting to disrupt California’s broadband marketplace.
The coverage, collectively, paints a picture of a rapidly changing broadband landscape.
Residents across the state are gradually being exposed to more options, which will force established providers to adjust in an effort to stay competitive.
As the competitiveness increases, the consumers — in theory — benefit the most.
Despite the prospect of uncertain times, local enterprise remains devout in their belief that California is committed to broadband.
As a result, concern over budget constraints in Sacamento are alleviated by massive investments in broadband.
‘Half the battle’
Broadband has won half the battle in California. In the court of public opinion, it’s seen as a necessity.
Taxpayers, by and large, support broadband spending. Now, it’s time to get it built.
At Broadband Communities Summit West, in San Diego, voices from around California will come together to share their stories.
The summit, from Oct. 30-31, will feature industry leaders gathering to hear updates from service providers and public officials.
Meanwhile, it’s a critical time for broadband in California.
In total, California was allocated more than $1.8 billion out of the $42.45 billion budget for the BEAD program, outlined in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Federal approval for the state’s initial BEAD proposal came earlier this fall. It is a key development regarding efforts to close broadband’s digital divide in California.
The approval allows California to request access to BEAD funding to begin implementation of the state’s “Internet for All” program.
At Broadband Communities Summit West, sessions like “BEAD Progress and Overcoming the Challenges,” and updates from California officials will be an invaluable insight at a pivotal time.
If you haven’t yet registered to attend the summit, there’s still time.
We’ll have expert panels discussing topics like connectivity in multifamily dwelling units (MDUs), public-private partnerships, and disaster planning.
The CPUC, and the California Department of Technology, which has been designated as the administering agent for the state’s digital equity program, will both have representatives at Broadband Communities Summit West.
Registering for the summit will give you a view of the front lines of California’s efforts.
Click here to learn more about Broadband Communities Summit West.