While much of America enjoys high-speed internet, many rural and remote communities still lack access. However, with thousands of broadband expansion projects underway across the nation, America is making significant progress in bridging the digital divide.
What will it take to get the job done and achieve a fully connected America?
This question is explored in the documentary “Every Last Mile: The Untold Story of Connecting Rural America,” which can be streamed for free online. The documentary sheds light on the relentless efforts of broadband construction crews as they overcome challenges at every turn, braving extreme conditions and venturing into the country’s most remote regions.
Why it matters: As the nation moves forward with the “Internet for All” initiative, backed by a historic $42.45 billion in federal broadband funds, “Every Last Mile” stands as a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of connectivity.
Three Projects. Three Stories. One Mission.
The short docufilm follows broadband construction crews in three locations as they overcome obstacles to connect the unconnected.
- King Cove, Alaska: This remote fishing village is nestled amidst the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness. Crews battled icy terrain and logistical nightmares to bring internet access to this isolated community.
- Lakewood Township, Minnesota: Deep within the dense forests bordering Lake Superior, crews braved brutal winters and rugged landscapes to bring internet access to a rural township.
- Congress, Arizona: Under the scorching Arizona sun, another team embarks on a mission to bridge the digital divide. They faced unforgiving desert heat and vast distances, but their unwavering determination fueled their progress.
These are just a few examples of the countless projects underway across rural America. While the specific challenges may vary, the mission remains the same: connect the unconnected.
Maintaining Momentum: A Call to Action
The 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Law marked a turning point, providing a substantial increase in funding for expanding broadband in rural and remote parts of the country.
However, the success of these efforts hinges on how each state allocates its share of the broadband expansion funds, ensuring that they prioritize unserved communities.
Through raising awareness and advocating for continued investment, America can bridge the digital divide and ensure that every community, regardless of location, has access to high-speed internet.
- Share your story of how high-speed internet has impacted your work, education, community, or daily life. Your experience can highlight for others why closing the digital divide is crucial.
- Join our #ConnectivityCounts community to help us ensure every community, regardless of location, has access to high-speed internet.
