Broadband is essential infrastructure for cities and communities. Having high speed internet connectivity has a major effect on business growth, retention and attraction.
This initiative works toward two outcomes:
EDC has adopted this initiative in consideration of several community and economic values:
Key activities of the initiative include an assessment of the region’s broadband infrastructure, outreach and education for improving leadership and stakeholder awareness of the need for investment in fiber resources, advocacy for the adoption of local policies that facilitate broadband deployment, and the identification of gaps in service and solutions for closing them.
The EDC serves as the fiscal agent for the Pacific Coast Broadband Consortium, a partnership of public and private stakeholders in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. The Consortium manages grant funds distributed by the California Public Utilities Commission dedicated to assisting local and regional efforts in improving broadband deployment, access and adoption.
Local partners include the counties and municipalities, school administrators, telecommunication companies and both public and private sector enterprises whose sustainability, growth and service effectiveness depends on reliable and affordable high speed communication.