The Meaning of a National Broadband Plan

The goal is clear: speed universal access to broadband across America to unleash considerable opportunities and economic stimulus.  With $7.2 billion in federal funds and a mandate from Congress, the Federal Communications Commission is working to draft a national broadband plan as a part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Given the critical importance of broadband to so many sectors of our economy and American life, our latest Broadband Now video and video wall highlight the national broadband plan now underway.

The FCC kick-started the planning process with a series of workshops underscoring the transformative power of broadband on our economy, health care, education, the environment, and more.  But, what do the facts tell us about where broadband deployment stands, and where it needs to go?  Here are a few key statistics featured in our latest Broadband Now video:

Competition and Choice. Today, 96% of Americans have access to high-speed Internet, and more than 4 out of 5 consumers have multiple choices in companies and technologies.

Investment and Innovation. The nation's 1,400 high-speed Internet providers invest between $50 and $60 billion annually in broadband infrastructure -- a sum that makes the U.S. the world leader in infrastructure investment, according to the Tech Policy Institute.

Providing Universal Access.  Approximately 5% of Americans say they don't have broadband because service is unavailable, and other consumers say they simply have no interest in broadband.  While the federal stimulus funds targeting broadband deployment will certainly help, it's essential that constructive policies foster innovative collaborations between the private and public sectors to bridge this digital divide.  Focusing on community-based digital literacy efforts will also be key to engaging an even broader audience.

With private companies and policymakers alike moving toward the goal of universal broadband, America's citizens can count on this technology's rewards growing richer for our communities.  To hear more about our nation's plans for broadband, tune into our latest Broadband Now video or check out our video wall.