FREE CITYWIDE FIBER OPTIC INTERNET
In today’s digital world, access to the internet is required for basic functions, but for many, it can also be unattainable financially, creating further income inequality. In California, 22% of all households are unconnected to the internet, with 21% of all Latino homes being unconnected. Youth that come from homes inhabited by Latino or Black citizens are the highest percentage of students with no connection to the internet. As always, access equals opportunity, and giving everyone access to a citywide, free high-speed internet service would yield incredibly positive results for everyone from business owners, locals and tourists.
Following the lead of other cities like Mesa, AZ and Downey, CA, our city would put out bids to companies to install free or low-cost citywide fiber optic internet. Current models have shown that the project would not cost the city any money because it would be 100% funded by the installing company, which would make its profit selling space on its service to internet providers.
This new fiber optic network system will help give our city a competitive advantage in retaining and attracting businesses, creating jobs and private investment in the community, as well as bolstering economic stimulation for all our local businesses.
With this new fiber optic infrastructure, the City will also be able to accommodate future expansion and innovative opportunities. Smart city applications made possible by the fiber optic installation can include automated traffic control system, streetlights, electric vehicle charging stations, building and energy management systems, to name a few.
The installation of fiberoptic systems will also alleviate the lack of access to internet that many in underserved communities experience. This will enable citizens in those communities to have equal access to jobs, education, healthcare, and other life necessities.