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Broadband
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Berkshire Connect, Inc. and Pioneer Valley Connect Merge; WesternMA Connect, Inc. Created
On May 27, 2009, Berkshire Connect, Inc. and Pioneer Valley Connect (“the Connects”) announced their formal merger to create WesternMA Connect, Inc. The new entity will continue the Connects' mission to create an advanced telecommunications landscape that will provide affordable, reliable, and redundant high capacity broadband services throughout Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire counties in Western Massachusetts.
Over the past decade, each of the Connect organizations has led efforts to encourage the deployment of infrastructure and access to broadband services for businesses, governments, and residents in unserved areas. A formal collaboration in 2005 allowed the pursuit of several key studies and projects. One of the these efforts led to key findings that were reflected in the state broadband legislation that enacted the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) and $40 million Incentive Fund in August 2008.
As a non-profit organization, WesternMA Connect is led by a five- member Board of Directors that includes Berkshire Connect President Donald Dubendorf and Pioneer Valley Connect Co-Chair Linda Dunlavy. WesternMA Connect is staffed by Chief Technology Officer Chip Brodeur and Business Manager Sharon Ferry, with consultant services provided by Jessica Atwood of the Franklin Regional Council of Governments. A website for WesternMA Connect is in development. Until completed, this current website and www.pioneervalleyconnect.org will continue to be utilized.
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Broadband Roundtable with Governor Patrick on Tuesday, May 26th in New Salem
The Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) has announced a broadband roundtable with Governor Deval Patrick for Tuesday, May 26th in New Salem. According to the MBI, Governor Deval Patrick will be joined by MBI Director Sharon Gillett, as well as state and local officials, industry leaders and concerned citizens for a discussion on MBI’s efforts to expand broadband Internet service. The event will also highlight a new MBI interactive mapping tool that will help speed deployment of broadband coverage. The event is Tuesday, May 26, 2009 at 10 am at the Town Hall, 15 South Main Street, New Salem, MA. The MBI requests that those attending reply by emailing broadband@masstech.org.
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Connects Present at the Massachusetts Opportunity Online Summit
On April 30, 2009, the Connects participated in a panel discussion entitled “Economic Development & Broadband Equity in Massachusetts” addressing the questions “What is the impact of the lack of broadband access on economic development in Massachusetts?” and “How do we keep Massachusetts competitive in the global economy?” This Summit, hosted by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners was designed to bring together libraries, local leaders, and state leaders to discuss the state of library connectivity in Massachusetts and direct a plan for improved sustained connectivity.
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Governor Appoints MBI Director
On April 29, 2009, Governor Patrick announced the appointment of Sharon E. Gillett as Director of the Massachusetts Broadband Institute, a newly created division within the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, tasked with making strategic and targeted public investments with the objective of delivering broadband service to every community in the Commonwealth by 2011. Director Gillett has been the Commissioner of the MA Department of Telecommunications and Cable (DTC) for the past two years, and has extensive expertise in broadband deployment impacts and policy. Director Gillett is very well respected nationally and internationally for this expertise, and has been an integral part of establishing the MBI. Chief of Staff for the DTC, Carol Foltz, is serving as the Interim Commissioner. The Connects congratulate both Sharon and Carol on their new positions and look forward to working with them in their new roles.
view press release
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USDA Community Connect Grant Program
On April 28, 2009, the US Department of Agriculture's Rural Utility Service opened their latest funding round for their Community Connect Grant Program. Please carefully review the application to determine if your project is eligible. As this is a competitive program, applications are scored according to three criteria: “Rurality,” “Economic Need,” and the project's “Community-Oriented Connectivity” benefits. The Connects have created a data spreadsheet with the necessary data to calculate the Rurality and Economic Need points for each western Massachusetts municipality.
view Rural Development Community Connect Grant Program >> |
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view Connects data spreadsheet |
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February 17, 2009 - Broadband Funding in the Federal Economic Stimulus Legislation
The President will sign into law later today the federal economic stimulus legislation, which includes $7.2 billion in funding for broadband. The two federal agencies that will administer these funds are the US Dept. of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the USDA’s Rural Utilities Services (RUS). The NTIA will administer $4.7 billion through a new Broadband Technology Opportunities Program, and the RUS will administer $2.5 billion through existing grant and loan programs. The Connects will continue to work with state and federal partners and our federal legislative delegation including Senator Kerry and Congressman Olver, to determine if and how these federal resources could be used to promote broadband access in unserved areas of western Massachusetts.
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DTC Proposed Regional Investigation of Verizon Services
The Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications & Cable (DTC) is requesting public comment about a proposed regional investigation of Verizon telephone service quality. This proposed investigation will incorporate current and pending town-specific inquiries into a broader, regional investigation. Please note that the investigation will not include an examination of DSL or internet services because that is not under the regulatory authority of the DTC. A Request for Comment notice has been sent to each town in the region requesting initial comments to be submitted by February 23rd.
The Connects have submitted a comment letter to DTC supporting a regional investigation of Verizon services in western Massachusetts. Over the past ten years, the Connects have repeatedly heard from residents, businesses and local officials from throughout the region about their poor telephone service quality. Also, the Connects believe a regional approach would best address the region’s interconnected telecommunications infrastructure and would result in a more timely and efficient investigation.
click here to view DTC Request for Comment >> |
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click here to view Connects Comment to DTC >>
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Senator Kerry Appointed Chairman of Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology
On February 12, 2009, Senator Kerry was appointed Chairman to the newly formed Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, which will have jurisdiction over the FCC, the NTIA, and other select agencies. Recently, Senator Kerry wrote an Op/Ed piece for “The Hill” about the importance of broadband access, titled “We must make good on the promise of access to broadband for everyone.”
view press release >> |
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MBI Submits White Paper to President and Congressional Leadership
On February 9, 2009, the MBI and six other state technology agencies submitted a white paper to the President and Congressional Leadership encouraging their support of broadband funding in the economic stimulus legislation. The paper specifies some key elements that should be included, such as the bulk of funding to be available through grants rather than loans, and to encourage the NTIA to administer funds, rather than RUS.
click here to view white paper >> |
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Governor Patrick Appoints Members to the MBI Board of Directors
In a statement released by Governor Patrick’s office on January 14, the remaining four seats on the Massachusetts Broadband Institute’s (MBI) Board have been filled. Those appointed include Linda Dunlavy, Executive Director of the Franklin Regional Council of Governments, and Rick Oliveri, Director of Technology Management at Baystate Health. Both Linda and Rick are Co-Chairs of the Pioneer Valley Connect Steering Committee. Also appointed were Brian Burke, the Northeast Director of State Government Affairs / Legal and Corporate Affair for the Microsoft Corporation, and Dr. David Clark, Senior Research Scientist and Director of the Advanced Network Architecture Group in the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
To view the full press release,
click here >> |
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REGIONAL BROADBAND SURVEY - SUMMARY RESULTS
Results of the Regional Broadband Survey conducted by the Connects have been summarized. The purpose of this survey was to better define unserved areas of western Massachusetts and to demonstrate the region's demand for broadband while the state broadband legislation was being discussed. If a municipality is interested in receiving the summary of responses for their community, please contact the Connects.
Summary Results
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Summary Results - List of Participating Western MA Municipalities
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Regional Broadband Survey
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MA Secretary O'Connell Letter to Obama Transition Team
December 23, 2008 - Secretary O'Connell of the MA Executive Office of Housing & Development submitted a proposal to President-Elect Obama's transition team regarding the importance of supporting broadband deployment.
To view the cover letter and proposal,
click here >> |
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MBI Call for Solutions
The Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI), a division of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, held a "Call for Solutions" (CfS) Public Forum on December 4th in Northampton, MA. This FREE public forum addressed key questions submitted prior to the CfS deadline and provided an opportunity for public participation.
To view the agenda, presentation, attendee list and video taping,
click here |
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To view all submissions to the Call for Solutions,
click here |
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To view the Connects response to the Call for Solutions,
click here
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I-91 ITS & Fiber Conduit Project
On November 6th, MassHighway held a morning ceremony at the MassHighway District 2 Offices in Northampton to celebrate the start of construction for the I-91 Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) & Fiber Conduit Project. This project will create a state-of-the-art fiber optic communications and ITS surveillance system to serve the I-91 corridor that will be operated by MassHighway District 2. In addition, this project will include the installation of additional conduit that will be available for lease to private providers. This conduit is a critical part in creating a more robust telecommunications infrastructure in the region, and will complement statewide efforts to deploy broadband in unserved areas.
The Connects have strongly advocated for this project and congratulate MassHighway and their partners on this milestone. The Connects also thank our federal and state legislative delegation, in particular Congressman Olver, for their strong support of this effort.
Since this project’s inception in 2003, Linda Dunlavy, Co-Chair of Pioneer Valley Connect Steering Committee, has been a champion of the tremendous economic development potential of the project, in addition to its transportation and public safety mission. In 2006, the Connects Chief Technology Officer Chip Brodeur and consultant Doug Norton provided technical expertise to MassHighway regarding design. As this project begins construction and continues to design the remaining segments, the Connects will continue to support and monitor its progress.
For more information about this project >> |
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Connects Host State Commissioner of Telecommunications and Cable
On Saturday, October 25, 2008, Berkshire Connect, Inc. and Pioneer Valley Connect (“the Connects”) hosted Sharon Gillett, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications & Cable (DTC) to provide an overview of the responsibilities of the DTC. This presentation was followed by a panel discussion of the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) and related broadband issues in western Massachusetts. Panel participants were the Commissioner, the Connects and the John Adams Innovation Institute. Two sessions were held, one in the morning at the Greenfield Community College in Greenfield, and one in the afternoon at the Cranwell Resort in Lenox.
view forum highlights
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The Connects Participate in the USDA Western Massachusetts Broadband Workshop
On October 15, 2008, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Senator Edward M. Kennedy sponsored a free workshop for businesses, local governments, economic developers, educators, libraries, health care and emergency services agencies and others interested in learning more about USDA programs and potential funding sources for broadband development. Topics included changes in these programs due to the recent passage by Congress of the 2008 Farm Bill. Berkshire Connect and Pionneer Valley Connect joined DTC Commissioner Gillett in a presentation addressing "Massachusetts Broadband Issues and Opportunities".
view Connects presentation
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Connects Present at National Rural Telecom Conference
The Rural Telecommunications Congress Board hosted their 11th annual conference from October 5-8, 2008 at Smugglers' Notch, Vermont. The theme of the conference showcased pioneering approaches to building local broadband capacity to improve the quality of life for people in rural communities. Berkshire Connect Inc., Pioneer Valley Connect and the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative were honored to be invited to speak on a panel titled "Closing Rural Broadband Gaps: Public Policy Experience in Massachusetts." Massachusetts was also featured on the Roundtable Discussion Panel that reviewed the challenges, successes, policies and programs of eight other states also addressing rural broadband needs.
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Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) Seeking to Ensure Broadband Access for Unserved Citizens and Businesses in Western Massachusetts
On October 6, 2008, the newly established Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) issued a “Call for Solutions” with the goal of engaging with potential broadband providers in its efforts to ensure access to affordable and robust broadband services for un-served businesses and citizens in western Massachusetts. Responses will identify practical, sustainable solutions that encourage public/private partnerships for addressing the digital divide in the western counties of the state.
view Call for Solutions |
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Call for Solutions Deadline Extension & Inquiry Responses |
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Governor Patrick Signs Broadband Bill
On August 4, 2008, Governor Patrick signed legislation to create the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) and Incentive Fund. The $40 million Incentive Fund will invest in broadband infrastructure in the Commonwealth that will support deployment of affordable and ubiquitous broadband access to unserved citizens.
The Connects will continue to advocate for the most rapid and effective deployment of infrastructure that will benefit all unserved areas of Western Massachusetts. We greatly appreciate the leadership of Governor Patrick and the regional legislative delegation on this issue, and to the citizens of Western Massachusetts for their support and diligence. The Connects look forward to working with the MBI and their partners to achieve broadband access equity in Western Massachusetts.
view legislation
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Broadband Public Hearing
On Thursday, February 14, an excellent public hearing was held at the Statehouse to hear testimony on the broadband bill, House No. 4311, An Act Establishing and Funding the Massachusetts Broadband Institute. It was standing room only as Chairman Mark Montigny recognized the western Massachusetts delegation for its diligence in bringing to the attention of the committee the broadband challenges faced by their constituents and he also acknowledged the work done by Berkshire Connect and Pioneer Valley Connect. Testimony was presented by Governor Patrick; Rep. Kulik; Rep. Guyer; Sen. Downing; Rep. Pignatelli; Rep. Bosley; Housing and Economic Development Secretary Daniel O’Connell; Telecommunications and Cable Commissioner Sharon Gillett; Administration and Finance Undersecretary Jay Gonzalez; Berkshire Connect President Don Dubendorf; and Pioneer Valley Connect Co-Chair Linda Dunlavy. A special thanks to those western Massachusetts citizens who took time to attend the hearing and give such compelling personal testimonies.
Connects Testimony
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Governor Patrick Testimony
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Senator Downing Testimony
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Commissioner Gillett Testimony
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VERIZON ANNOUNCES DSL EXPANSION
On February 28, Verizon announced plans for DSL deployment in Western Massachusetts. The Connects welcome and are encouraged by any network expansions from the incumbent broadband service providers that reach into the unserved areas of Western Massachusetts. While we recognize that DSL technology is a reliable broadband service, we are also aware of the technical limitations that limit deployment of this technology especially in the rural environment. We look forward to a more detailed description of the planned expansion including timelines and anticipated coverage areas. At the same time, it is important to understand that the proposed DSL deployment does not solve the problem for many unserved citizens and businesses. This announcement does not change the need for legislation for broadband to all areas of Western Massachusetts and the Commonwealth.
News Release |
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CONNECTING WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS
The efforts of Berkshire Connect and Pioneer Valley Connect to achieve the deployment of advanced, affordable broadband services into unserved areas of this region.
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Governor Patrick's REDRAFTED Broadband Bill
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Frequently Asked MBI Questions
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Governor Patrick's Broadband Bill
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MA Broadband Institute & Fund - Executive Summary (as published by the EOHED)
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Connects' Reaction to an Act Establishing and Funding the Mass. Broadband Inst.
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Regional Broadband Survey Press Release
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Connects Update - November 2007
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Map of Broadband Availability in MA Municipalities (prepared by JAII of MTC)
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Broadband Bill Filed -- Press Release
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Broadband Availability Database
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Project Overview
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JAII Grant Award
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Why is broadband important?
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Town hall connectivity needs in Western Massachusetts
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BETA TEST PROGRAM
The goal of this program is to evaluate the process and technologies to create wireless networks in un-served/underserved areas of Western Massachusetts. Questions about this effort may be directed to Maggie Bergin, Project Manager, at maggieanne@mac.com.
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Photos of Connects Beta Test Program Network Elements
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Program Overview
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Program Timeline and Updates
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New Salem Hotspot Guidelines
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Florida Hotspot Guidelines
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Worthington Hotspot Guidelines
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Program FAQs
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Finalists Announced
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Semi-finalists Chosen
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Press Release
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MUNICIPAL BROADBAND TOOLKIT
Resources to be used by municipal governments and local broadband groups to encourage and support broadband deployment in their un-served and underserved communities. Additional tools will be posted as they become available. The Connects would appreciate your feedback regarding these tools, so that they may be revised and improved over time.
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Telecommunications Terminology
Are you confused by telecom jargon? Check out our general glossary of telecommunications terminology.
click here
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Community Infrastructure
The purpose of this questionnaire is to gather information about potential assets or obstacles that could impact future telecommunications infrastructure deployment in your community. Topics reviewed include: the basic telecom network, right of ways, utility poles, cell towers, mast antenna locations, cable routes, etc.
Currently under development
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Municipal Building Inventory
This telecom inventory form is intended to be an internal document to help local governments quantify their current and future telecom needs. The Connects suggest that the local governmnet work through this inventory in collaboration with their local broadband group, if one exists. Often local broadband groups can acccess local residents who have the technical expertise to help.
Currently under development
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Wireless 101
A broad overview of wireless broadband technoogy, its potential uses, and its inherent challenges,
click here
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BROADBAND FORUMS
The leadership of Berkshire Connect, Inc. and Pioneer Valley Connect held a series of forums about broadband technologies, challenges and opportunities in Western Massachusetts.
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Berkshire "Broadband 101" Forum - 11/29/06
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Berkshire "Underserved Communities Project" Forum - 1/18/07
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BROADBAND & WIRELESS LEGISLATION
In June 2006, legislation was passed in an effort to increase access to high-speed, affordable and reliable broadband services across the Commonwealth.
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Legislation Summary
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Economic Stimulus II
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BROADBAND INITIATVE FUNDING REPORT
Funded by the John Adams Innovation Institute (JAII) of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC), the purpose of this study was to identify potential grant and loan funding sources that might be available to facilitate the deployment of broadband telecommunications services in underserved communities, particularly in Western Massachusetts.
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Broadband Initiative Funding Report
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Funding Attachment A
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Funding Attachment B
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PILOT PROJECT: UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES
A pilot project study conducted to address how to bring affordable, replicable broadband to underserved communities in western Massachusetts.
click here
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GAO study examines broadband deployment in rural areas
Findings released May 5, 2006. In August 2005, with the assistance of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC), Berkshire Connect participated in the review process and hosted a panel discussion with the GAO team. Berkshire Connect is noted in the findings on page 27.
click here for study
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BOSTON WIRELESS TASK FORCE
The Boston Wireless Task Force was charged by Mayor Menino to develop a methodology for creating ubiquitous, wireless telecommunications in Boston.
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Final Report
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Wireless Boston - Overview
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A presentation of the Boston Wireless Task Force Report
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MEASURING BROADBAND'S ECONOMIC IMPACT
Prepared for the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration, February 2006
click here
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