Closing the Digital Divide: Approaches from Local Government Leaders

Internet access is no longer a want, it’s a need. Providing equal access to broadband connectivity has become top of mind for local government leaders country wide. The challenges around the digital divide are real. Without affordable, accessible broadband, families can’t work from home, participate in virtual learning or access telehealth. Identified during a small group discussion of local government leaders, including City and County Managers, Chief Innovation Officers, Directors of Technology and a Digital Equity Coordinator, here are some ideas about how local governments can start to move the needle on the digital divide.