ChatGPT: The article “Alternative Broadband Networks: Affordable Internet for the People, One Rooftop at a Time” by Laura Michelle Davis discusses the efforts of volunteer-based organizations like NYC Mesh to address the digital divide and provide affordable, open, and reliable internet access to underserved communities. Here are the major conclusions and a shortlist of action points for communities interested in taking control of their local internet infrastructure:

Major Conclusions:

Digital Divide Existence: The article highlights the existence of a significant digital divide, where millions of Americans, particularly those in poor, Black, Latino, indigenous, and rural communities, lack access to affordable high-speed internet.

Community-Led Solutions: It emphasizes the role of community-led initiatives like NYC Mesh in bridging this divide by providing affordable internet access and serving as an alternative to traditional internet service providers (ISPs).

Mesh Networks: The article discusses the use of mesh networks, decentralized systems of nodes and hubs, as a solution to provide reliable and affordable internet connectivity, especially in urban areas.

Open Access: NYC Mesh’s approach includes open access to the internet and the sharing of wireless connections with neighbors, promoting a sense of community and connectivity.

Data Privacy: NYC Mesh doesn’t collect personal data or engage in content blocking, distinguishing it from mainstream ISPs that often monitor user activity.

Model for Replication: NYC Mesh serves as a blueprint for other communities interested in establishing their own community broadband projects. The organization provides extensive documentation and open-source materials for replication.

Challenges from Incumbent ISPs: The article highlights the challenges community networks face when competing with incumbent ISPs that determine pricing, infrastructure, and services based on profit motives.

Need for Open-Access Solutions: It emphasizes the importance of pushing for open-access solutions, where cities or regions build and operate their broadband infrastructure, allowing multiple providers to compete for subscribers, reducing costs, and increasing coverage.

Action Points for Communities:

Community Collaboration: Communities should come together, involve volunteers, and establish a collaborative network of individuals passionate about improving local internet access.

Documentation and Open Source: Like NYC Mesh, communities should create detailed documentation, share technical implementation knowledge, and provide open-source materials to assist others in replicating their success.

Fiber-Optic Infrastructure: Consider investing in fiber-optic infrastructure for faster and more reliable broadband connectivity, even though it may involve higher initial costs.

Open-Access Approach: Promote the open-access model, where the community builds and operates the physical infrastructure, allowing multiple providers to offer services.

Advocacy for Policy Change: Advocate for policy changes that promote community broadband initiatives and challenge preemption laws that restrict competition.

Community Building: Emphasize the sense of community and collaboration, where every member is considered a participant rather than a customer.

Education and Training: Offer training and education opportunities for volunteers to learn about network operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Sustainability: Ensure long-term sustainability by building a support structure and securing funding for ongoing maintenance and expansion.

Broadband Data Accuracy: Work on improving the accuracy of broadband coverage maps to determine areas in need and allocate resources effectively.

Advocate for Publicly Owned Infrastructure: Support initiatives to publicly own broadband infrastructure to control costs and ensure affordable access for all.

Digital Inclusion: Focus on digital inclusion efforts to ensure that the most marginalized communities have access to affordable internet services.

Continued Growth: Plan for continued growth and expansion, taking into account factors like supply chain challenges and access to building locations.

Advocacy for Affordable Access: Continue advocating for affordable access solutions beyond short-term subsidies, addressing the root causes of unaffordability.

These action points can guide communities interested in taking control of their local internet infrastructure and promoting digital equity, much like the efforts of NYC Mesh and similar community-led initiatives