Ohio to try and expand broadband across state!

[gunug]

I'm not sure you should hold your breath but this doesn't seem like a bad idea (as long as "I'm" not footing the bill)!  

QUOTE

Columbus, Ohio – In order to coordinate and expand access to the state’s broadband data network, Ohio Governor Ted Strickland has signed an executive order establishing the Ohio Broadband Council and the Broadband Ohio Network.

The order directs the Ohio Broadband Council to coordinate efforts to extend access to the Broadband Ohio Network to every county in Ohio. And the order allows public and private entities to tap into the Broadband Ohio Network – all with a goal of expanding access to high-speed internet service in parts of the state that presently don’t have such service.

            --http://governor.ohio.gov/News/July2007/News72707/tabid/335/Default.aspx

[Gregg]

If Milwaukee's attempt to do this is any guide, it will take longer than they expect it to.

[dolphin]

Sounds good on paper...we'll have to wait and see!

[sandbox]

The battle is on for the 700 mhz spectrum, http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20070...-broadband.html
and with it the future of universal broadband, "the third pipe"
Many people, friends of mine, living on farms, ranches and or mountainous rural communities have no broadband access, not because it's not possible but because of the way our nation has structured this utility. Although built into every license is a promise to WIRE the rural community, all the Telcos and Cable controllers have worked from the top down, building in the communities that would give the best capital returns. When the technology changes they start from the top again and exclude regional broadband time after time. Both cable and telcos have made deals with cities for exclusive access in exchange for a free cable or Fios TV channel, restricting communities from seeking alternative access.

If OhiO's Gov. can overcome the loby against public wifi, he would achieve a service for his people that would be the envy of the nation.

[sandbox]

Gunug, here's something that might interest you.

A history of media and control of the airwaves.
A Progressive Response to an Undemocratic Media
http://www.wpvm.org/
November 15, 2004 by Wally Bowen
Ashville N.C.
1.5 hours

Wally Bowen, executive director of the Mountain Area Information Network, a nonprofit internet service provider that offers internet service in western North Carolina. He’s also the founder of the low power FM station WPVM. Them movie spends about 38 minutes on the history of media and then moves into the 1996 communication act and net neutrality.

After you see this film you will understand how difficult it will be for the Governor of Ohio to achieve public WiFi. Control of the public airwaves has a long and sorted past.

Of course when dealing with public airwaves and the radio spectrum politics is the  controlling vehicle, so don’t be surprised if you find the history of media in the political sphere.