Massachusetts creating a true information superhighway

This past Tuesday, Massachusetts governor, Deval Patrick, announced the creation of a 4.56 mile fiber optic conduit that will stretch along a section of Interstate 95 up toward the Vermont border. This critical section of Internet infrastructure will complete a high speed information network that spans more than 50 miles from Connecticut to Vermont.

"Completing the last five miles will enable collaboration across state borders in a variety of areas, including public safety, education, e-health and access to Internet, say administration officials," according to an iBerkshires.com report.

The benefits of, quite literally, bridging this digital divide, are nearly endless. With increased Internet access, speed, and accessibility, individuals spanning the public and private sector with be able to gain from it's advantages. Gov. Patrick has high hopes for the new project and what it means for communities in Massachusetts.

"We are determined to empower all students and businesses with the tools they need to succeed," said Patrick, in a statement. "By leveraging an existing road project to bring broadband access to Western Massachusetts, we are positioning the commonwealth to compete for federal stimulus grants and investing wisely in our future."

By providing a critical infrastructure component to the future Western Massachusetts broadband ring, the Massachusetts Broadband Institute-Executive Office of Trasnporation partnership is expected to greatly improve the state's grant application for broadband funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act."

The entire project is scheduled for completion in 2010 and will cost approximately $30.7 million dollars. However, the majority of the funding for the project was secured through the federal government by Massachusetts State Congressman John Olver.

Patrick Announces Broadband Highway Partnership (iBerkshires)