BROADBAND COMMUNITIES is the leading source of information on digital and broadband technologies for buildings and communities. Our editorial aims to accelerate the deployment of Fiber-To-The-Home and Fiber-To-The-Premises.
Issue link: https://bbcmag.epubxp.com/i/232134
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Source: Strategic Networks Group telecommuting or deliver services online. In a North Carolina study, we found that 31 percent of households had home-based businesses, and another 14 percent wanted to start such businesses but needed help starting up. Home-based businesses increase employment levels and tax bases. Tese incremental benefts can be used to drive awareness of how to use broadband to operate a business. Kyle Hollifeld, Magellan Advisors: In Bristol, Va., we benchmarked businesses and suggested changes they might make to use the community network more efectively. Now we're helping the community of Jupiter, Fla., learn how businesses are using broadband. Jupiter plans to use its municipal fber for an open-access network that serves business, and the survey will show providers who their potential customers are. Persuading community ofcials to fund such a survey may require explaining to them that they have a dormant asset they could use to increase the tax base. In Bristol, the network authority funded an economic development staf member who focused on retaining businesses rather than attracting new ones. Te tax base grew faster that way. People in the 50- to 65-year-old age bracket are starting more new businesses than anyone else – and they're already in your community. Tey don't need to be attracted. Economic Revival: The Chicago Southland Fiber Network Story Ed Zabrocki, Mayor, Tinley Park: Te Chicago Southland area has reasonably priced land available, but broadband has been lacking. One of the Big Tree automakers wants to locate a dealership here, but it needs broadband 44 to do so. A company that makes glue for labels – it's so specialized that it has a worldwide market – needs broadband. Te frst water main to Tinley Park was built in 1972, and now we have to build a new one. Just as we need more water, | BROADBAND COMMUNITIES | www.broadbandcommunities.com we need more broadband. Businesses that are thinking about locating here look at all the infrastructure – roads, water and sewer – as well as incentives. Broadband has to be part of the entire package. | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013