There is a direct correlation between the income, skill level, and broadband subscription rate for areas that have access to broadband internet. The higher the subscription rate for an area translates a higher graduation and post-secondary education rate, higher median income, and a higher rated skill level. With organizations such as Caterpillar and the University of Georgia, Athens requires a deep pool of educated, highly skilled workers to fill open positions. We believe that by finding a solution to provide low or no cost broadband internet access to low-income areas in Athens, we can improve the overall quality of life and economic prospects for populations living in those areas.
There are many moving parts to consider when attacking this issue: governmental oversight and easements, Internet service provider (ISP) cooperation, crimes of opportunity, economic feasibility, etc. We propose a pilot program using Section 8 government assisted housing combining cooperation from local and state governments as well as ISPs and local non-profits to roll out a technological solution that also incorporates job and computer specific training.