Yesterday I attended the groundbreaking in Anoka County. They were celebrating the progress of their ARRA-funded fiber project managed by the County and Zayo Group. The event was well attended. I was a little late because a PUC meeting ran late – but I was in time to hear from local businesses about the impact they expected from fiber. I also heard Robyn West talk about the project. Robyn was on the original Minnesota Broadband Task Force. She also spoke of the economic development benefits of fiber. It was clear to see that folks were most interested in jobs and the economy and that fiber was touted as a tool for attracting or creating both.

I was also able to catch John Real, Zayo Networks Vice President. One of the striking things he said was that broadband – especially in a rural area – can really level the playing field. *If* you have access to it.

You can get more info, video and pictures on the Connect Anoka County site.