Paul Thissen: Innovation in Action

Minnesota, with its large rural areas, has a broadband problem.  In short, too many people have limited or slow access to modern communications technologies that are shaping modern life.

In rural areas, our broadband is basically limited by two factors: expanding broadband access is very expensive and low population densities offer few incentives to profit-maximizing companies to invest in those communities. 

Fortunately, the Federal Communications Commission has opened the door to new technologies that will lower the cost of offering broadband in rural areas.  “White spaces” are unused chunks of radio spectrum that are now available to the public.  Much like anyone can use Wi-Fi to create a wireless network in their home, rural communities will be able to create much larger wireless networks.

This FCC decision opens the path to achieving a Minnesota where all citizens have access to the educational and economic development opportunities from the ongoing communications revolution.  However, the FCC decision is a necessary but not sufficient precondition to expanding broadband access across Minnesota.

The private sector will not, perhaps cannot, offer every Minnesotan the high quality broadband access we need.  Just as we relied upon our government to build the roads that enabled economic prosperity in the past, our government continues to have a strong role in ensuring everyone gains access to broadband – our current and future digital roads. 

Small communities require expert assistance and technical advice that the State can help provide.  The State can also assist communities financially, by supporting bonding efforts or even making loans available to communities with solid plans to offer fast broadband access.  Over time, these networks will pay for themselves, but they need some help on the front end. 

Relying solely on private sector solutions has left millions across America behind.  With white spaces and smart government initiatives, we can make up for lost time.