COVID-19 and the Digital Divide
By Chelsea Collier, Digi.City
Tuesday, April 14, 2020
The Coronavirus pandemic has underlined existing gaps in connectivity in communities across America. While the methods of connecting technology have evolved substantially since the Internet was first created – broadband, satellites, fixed wireless services, hotspots, and more—there are still far too many people in the U.S. who remain on the disconnected side of the digital divide.
It should be noted that the digital divide is about more than just broadband connectivity. Hardware (computers/tablets), digital literacy skills and a tech-positive supportive environment are all factors that contribute to closing the gap.
The lack of connectivity across the U.S. is not a new conversation. It is well known and documented that reduced Internet availability negatively impacts access information, education, job opportunities and healthcare just to name a few. This pandemic has accelerated and exacerbated this reality. It is now an imperative.
A recent article on Fortune’s website argued that we aren’t doing enough to bridge the gap between people who have Internet access and those who are withoutand. I agree. More needs to be done in communities across America to ensure everyone benefits from the digital evolution.
The great news is that now we have more options than ever before to reach one another. The Internet has proven to withstand the influx of users online during this pandemic as students switch to online classes and companies move to remote work. This is thanks in large part to the investments made by companies into our network and public/private partnerships. This collaborative approach has prepared America’s digital infrastructure for the unprecedented increase in Internet usage.
Additionally, wireless carriers are using innovative technologies to support communities with spikes in network usage during the pandemic by deploying cells on wheels and aerial network-support drones. The FCC has given temporary access to spectrum to wireless carriers so they can boost network capacity. Both the public and private sector have engaged during this time to come up with solutions in order to keep Americans connected.
There is much still unknown related to the COVID-19 pandemic. But one thing is clear - that the partnership between public and private sectors must continue as we search for new and innovative ways to connect us all. While building out broadband networks is an important part of solving the digital divide, there are a number of options to ensure each and every community has the same opportunity to connect.
Leaders at every level of government – city, county, state, and federal – need to look back and assess what went right, what went wrong, and where there are opportunities for improvement. This can be a collaborative, informed and forward-looking exercise as long as we are all aligned on a single goal - to connect our country
As I’ve said before, the number one factor that contributes to smart city success is the willingness of local leadership. Now is the time to find champions, find innovative solutions, and find the partnerships that will ensure every American can benefit from 21st century connectivity.