ADTRAN Inc., a provider of next-generation networking solutions, has deployed Gigabit broadband services to over 200 communities as part of its Enabling Communities, Connecting Lives program.†The program showcases how the company’s Wi-Fi and fiber-based Gigabit broadband along with cloud connectivity solutions are being used in cities, towns, and communities across the country to help support economic growth and urban development.
“When we launched our Enabling Communities, Connecting Lives program a little over a year ago, we envisioned every community regardless of size could realize the transformative benefits of Gigabit broadband. Thanks to the momentum of our customers, we are far surpassing our initial goals and the vision is becoming a reality, with more than 200 communities now reaping the benefits of Gigabit services,” says Jay Wilson, senior vice president of technology and strategy, ADTRAN. “Our service provider customers are seeing a sizeable impact to their business as Gigabit broadband is providing a ‘halo effect’ in helping them win and keep new customers. All of these factors combined are creating a new foundation for today’s digital economy.”
The company states it has witnessed firsthand the positive impact communities have enjoyed from these deployments. A few key benefits include:
- Economic Development: The availability of Gigabit throughout towns and cities attracts new businesses to the area, stimulating local economies.
- Education: Gigabit broadband is providing school districts with the necessary bandwidth to ensure online education for more personalized learning experiences as well as maximizing the benefit of E-rate funding projects.
- Real Estate: A recent FTTH Council study proclaims that communities with access to fiber-delivered Internet can increase home values by up to 3.1 percent, or nearly $5,500 on a median priced home of $175,000. Agents have reported an increase in homebuyers looking for properties specifically in areas deploying Gigabit, or expecting to in the near future.
- Telecommuting: Reliability of Gigabit is opening the doors for increased work flexibility by allowing employees to work remotely.
- Agriculture: The delivery of Gigabit speeds is helping to streamline agriculture processes as well as enable new services. In Indiana, a dairy farm is using Gigabit broadband to remotely monitor milk production and processing. The farm is also delivering remote and on-site educational experiences by supporting connected, interactive learning centers for children.
- Healthcare: Hospitals and healthcare offices are deploying Gigabit broadband as they look to boost the quality of patient care. For those with ultra-fast broadband speeds, doctors and nurses are able to work with colleagues on-site and remotely.
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