Building a New Communications System for America at the Grassroots Level

[Commentary] The Washington debate over Internet funding in the economic stimulus package provides a remarkable opportunity to build a 21st century communications system. But if we're serious about making it work, this new communications system must focus on the people and the tools they use to communicate, instead of how fast or large the system is. Communications companies are lobbying for billions of dollars in the stimulus package. But what the new administration should be focused on is how to give people access to the Internet on open local networks managed by cities and counties. We envision a community-wide fiber network linking all local government buildings, schools, and libraries. The service would be anchored by local government. Non-mobile communications flow over the fiber network. Mobile communications flow over the fiber network to a WIFI/WIMAX wireless network. This is also the ideal moment to redefine what government can and should do for the people. Providing for the basic means of communications -- paving the streets and building the on-ramps for the information superhighway -- are proper local government functions. The big communications corporations can be hired to dig the trenches the way contractors bid on road and bridge projects, but the people should own the networks and should build the basic communications network that all households need. The private sector can still build its gold plated, hundred megabit network, but it will do so only if people are willing to pay for it. City streets and county roads are open to the least expensive compact car and the most expensive Rolls Royce providing access to basic services for all. (Mark Cooper is the Director of Research for the Consumer Federation of America. Gene Kimmelman is the Vice President for International Affairs of the Consumers Union)