New York City's broadband problem and the role of municipal government in promoting a private-sector solution

Abstract

Broadband technology has made the world ‘flat’ so that anyone with a laptop computer can compete in the global economy. Many countries have implemented policies to quickly expand broadband penetration and adoption rates as well as encourage the development of higher-speed services. But the United States is falling behind, primarily due to the U.S. government's failure to implement policies that promote competition in the areas of affordable access and quality of service. The situation in New York City is a microcosm of this problem: most residents have only one or two service providers from which to choose, and many are unable to afford the service. It is recommended that the municipal government of New York City implement policies that facilitate competition in the broadband market so all residents, nonprofit organizations, and businesses have access to affordable broadband and other advanced communications technologies.