Representatives from western Massachusetts have created a plan to expand the availability of broadband internet in the region. The so-called Last Mile of the state’s nearly $100 million broadband initiative is expected to be completed in the next three years.State and local lawmakers, the Massachusetts Broadband Institute and Wired West, a group representing more than 40 underserved communities, have announced that each town will adopt their own broadband strategy specific to their needs.
“If you tell me I’m going to get broadband for $29.99 [a month], that’s a great deal,” State Representative Smitty Pignatelli said. “If you tell me that it’s $129.99, I might have some different thoughts. That’s why I think these community meetings are critically important. How are we going to do it? How are we going to get the fiber to your home or business? More importantly, how much am I going to have to charge you to make sure this is affordable for the network?”
In July, state lawmakers authorized $50 million for the project.