New York City ties broadband to business

New York City has announced an ambitious plan to boost fiber capacity in the city and to make all public facilities "wireless friendly."

Here is a portion of the press release that illustrates New York understands the importance of broadband to small business. Major recommendations of the report include:

• Dedicate a portion of Federal funds for rebuilding Lower Manhattan to strengthening Downtown Manhattan's fiber optic infrastructure and developing a wireless network to provide back-up capabilities.
• Use City-owned and other public property for infrastructure to support new wireless technologies.
• Encourage Business Improvement Districts and other local organizations to promote the use of wireless technologies and improve access to broadband at the local level.
• Collaborate with universities to support development of new technologies and business ventures in telecommunications.
• Develop programs to educate small business owners about the basics of broadband communications and how broadband can improve their businesses.

"Working with the private sector to enhance broadband access in all areas of the City is in keeping with the Mayor's commitment to support the members of the industrial and manufacturing sector, the majority of which are small businesses that do not have adequate high-speed Internet access," said EDC President Andrew M. Alper. "This plan delineates the steps the City should take to improve, enhance and ensure network reliability for the entire City."