“Just as past generations built systems for clean water and electricity, this Internet Master Plan makes connectivity a public good—fast, fair, and universal,” said Noel Hidalgo, Executive Director of BetaNYC. “It’s the foundation for an equitable, connected future.”
Yesterday, the New York City Council passed an updated Internet Master Plan law. If signed by the Mayor, “it will require the Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications (DOITT) to develop and publish on its website an internet master plan for the City to achieve low-cost access to broadband internet in homes throughout the City. The plan would need to be updated every 5 years, and would address the City’s efforts to expand access to low-cost broadband internet prioritizing access for underserved areas. This bill would also create an internet advisory board, which would be responsible for reviewing plans, and making recommendations related to improvements to the plan. DOITT would also be required to post online an annual report detailing any progress made in implementing the plan.” Int 1122-2024a
Two hundred years ago, municipal leaders invested in infrastructure to bring clean drinking water to every resident. One hundred years later, municipal leaders worked with industry leaders to electrify the city.
For the 21st Century and beyond, clean water, electricity, and internet access go hand in hand. This Internet Master plan ensures internet access is universally accessible, fast, and serves the public good.
This revived Internet Master Plan not only addresses the need to work with diverse stakeholders, but also ensures that our communities have the literacy to leverage that access. In the next decade, AI and 5G will transform how we access information and data.
This bold and inclusive roadmap will illuminate our municipal future.
Kudos to Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez for making this happen.
BetaNYC calls upon the Mayor to sign it once it is at their desk.