The following summary has been condensed for length and readability. To listen to the full discussion, click here. This episode is sponsored by ETI Software and VETRO FiberMap.
In this engaging of the Broadband Bunch, Pete Pizzutillo hosts a compelling discussion with Curtis Dean, the executive director of the Community Broadband Action Network (CBAN). Recorded live from the bustling environment of Fiber Connect 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee, this conversation dives deep into the evolving landscape of broadband connectivity, the importance of community, and strategic developments within the sector.
Curtis begins by reflecting on the unique atmosphere of Fiber Connect, where the real value often lies in the informal interactions that occur outside of scheduled sessions. He notes that despite planning to attend various talks, the opportunities for spontaneous, meaningful conversations on the trade show floor and during social events were too beneficial to pass up. These interactions, Curtis points out, are crucial for fostering relationships and sharing knowledge within the broadband community, which often leads to collaborative opportunities and insights that are not found in formal settings.
A significant focus of Curtis’s involvement at the conference was his role as a moderator for a session on middle-mile growth through public-private partnerships. This discussion highlighted the critical role of the middle mile in enhancing connectivity and resilience for Internet Service Providers (ISPs), especially smaller and rural providers. Curtis emphasizes the necessity for these providers to have access to redundant network paths to ensure service reliability, recounting instances where a single point of failure led to significant service disruptions.
Curtis candidly discusses the complexities and challenges associated with navigating federal funding for broadband expansion. He highlights programs like the NTIA’s middle-mile grants but criticizes them for not providing sufficient funds to meet the actual needs. Moreover, Curtis expresses concern over the bureaucratic hurdles and reporting requirements that often overwhelm smaller providers, potentially stifling their participation in these programs due to the administrative burden.
A passionate segment of the conversation is dedicated to the issue of rural connectivity. Curtis laments the persistent digital divide that affects rural America, pointing out the economic and logistical challenges that prevent these areas from achieving the same level of service as urban centers. He advocates for innovative solutions that extend beyond traditional fiber deployments, suggesting that alternatives such as advanced fixed wireless technologies could play a crucial role in bridging this gap.
Looking forward, Curtis discusses the broader implications of broadband access for rural vitality, emphasizing how communities can leverage this technology to enhance public safety, smart city applications, and civic engagement. He envisions a future where broadband is not just about connectivity but a transformative tool for empowering communities to improve their governance, economic prospects, and quality of life.
Another vital topic covered in the podcast is the role of broadband in enabling telehealth services. Curtis criticizes the industry’s slow adoption and underutilization of telehealth technologies, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare services is often limited. He calls for a more concerted effort to integrate telehealth into the standard care models, utilizing broadband to deliver services like remote diagnostics and in-home monitoring, which could significantly benefit aging populations and those in remote areas.
Curtis concludes the discussion by outlining the goals and functions of CBAN. He describes the organization as a platform for advocacy, support, and resource sharing among broadband providers, particularly those serving underrepresented and rural communities. With a vision to foster a more connected and technologically equipped society, CBAN aims to address the challenges discussed throughout the podcast by facilitating dialogue, partnerships, and knowledge exchange among its members.
The episode wraps up with a powerful call to action for all stakeholders in the broadband ecosystem to work collaboratively towards a future where every American, regardless of geographic location, has access to reliable, high-speed internet. Curtis’s insights underscore the urgency and importance of addressing the broadband divide and innovating solutions that accommodate the diverse needs of all communities.
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