I am updating the MN County broadband profiles this week – to be released soon. I’m doing something a little different by giving each a code – red, yellow or green – based on progress toward the MN speed goals of 25/3 (by 2022) and 100/20 (by 2026). Green counties are often metro counties where a market case for broadband helps them or they have a provider or two that are engaging. Yellow counties may be moderately close (in population covered) to the goals, they may have an engaged provider or they may be building momentum. Red counties are often way behind in number and/or are lacking an engaged provider. So this recent article in Broadband Communities caught my eye – Six Ways Communities Can Help Providers Build Networks.
I’ve read these tips before, I’ve heard providers and community partners talk about them in conferences – but still good info:
- Information:
- Permitting and rights of way:
- Provider-friendly comprehensive plans:
- Forecasting growth:
- Marketing assistance and take rate:
- Matching investment:
You can check out the article for more details. Each community will be different in what they can/will offer and each provider will want/need different things – but as a community these are some of the tools you have in your toolbox.