Closing the digital divide has never been a more pressing initiative than it has been as the globe looked to cope with pandemic disruption. The foundational advantages that robust networking and broadband access deliver to communities across the U.S. are no longer optional — they’re essential for ensuring all can operate effectively in a digital economy.
Nevertheless, the FCC’s 2021 report revealed that, at the end of 2019, approximately 14.5 million Americans were without access to fixed broadband that reached speed benchmarks. Other reports assert that these numbers might be higher. With this in mind, achieving ubiquitous connectivity can seem to be an insurmountable task. Under the Biden administration, however, new legislation has emerged to combat coverage gaps and extend infrastructure build-outs to the areas that need them most.
In light of these recent developments, Horizon, a fiber-optic broadband company operating out of Columbus, Ohio, recently announced its participation on Connected2Fiber’s Virtual Roundtable: Beyond the Bill: Broadband Access to all Americans – Implications, Challenges and Opportunities for Network Providers.
Misty Tuttle, telecom industry veteran and Horizon’s General Manager of Business Operations, will join the panel on June 23, 2021, at 12:00 p.m. ET alongside industry peers to discuss implications for network providers under the new legislation. Attendees can expect to learn more about strategies for monetizing networks and gain a better understanding of stimulus procurement, planning strategies, and overall best practices for new infrastructure deployment. This roundtable will deliver crucial thought leadership regarding how ubiquitous access to high-quality, affordable, high-speed internet is taking shape, as well as what infrastructure providers must know to be a catalyst for positive change.
Delivering guidance on broadband expansion and network developments underscores Horizon’s dedication to serving as a trusted fiber ally to businesses throughout the Midwest. Horizon has been supporting beneficial telecom innovation through several business initiatives, including partnerships with the YMCA of Central Ohio that help build vital connectivity for local communities. The company has also been investing in ongoing network expansions, as well as launching new product offerings that deliver strategic communications and collaboration tools for customers.
As Horizon continually expands, the company remains committed to building and delivering necessary access to mission-critical digital capabilities for a growing number of customers.
To register for the Beyond the Bill: Broadband Access to all Americans – Implications, Challenges and Opportunities for Network Providers virtual roundtable, click here. To inquire more about fiber solutions from Horizon, visit HorizonConnects.com/enterprise-fiber or email [email protected].
