Broadband

Overview

Broadband is essential infrastructure for the 21st century. Schools, offices, retail, entertainment, governments, and medical and public services rely on online platforms, offering significant time savings and a digital avenue for economic prosperity. However, broadband is still far from a universal service across the state. Within the SCAG region alone, approximately 15 percent of all households, disproportionately located in underserved, urban communities and rural communities, do not have access to adequate internet service. 

Broadband is still considered relatively expensive, and studies show that prices are a significant barrier to access. Digital competency also plays a role, with nearly 52 percent of adults reporting they are “relatively hesitant” regarding new technologies and digital skills. Finally, physical infrastructural gaps create another significant barrier to adoption.

SCAG’s Commitment

SCAG’s Regional Council adopted Resolution No. 21-629-2 in February 2021, which pledges SCAG to assist in bridging the digital divide in underserved communities. The resolution recognizes the digital divide and directs staff to develop a broadband action plan and or program. Since the adoption of the resolution, SCAG has identified several key action items: 

  • Collect and invest in broadband data and develop detailed broadband maps and opportunity zones. 
  • Assist in securing funding for local jurisdictions and internet service providers to invest in broadband infrastructure in underserved communities.  
  • Conduct studies to develop solutions and strategies to assist in rapid deployment of broadband technology and technical studies that evaluate the benefits of broadband (e.g., reduced vehicle miles traveled).  

SCAG is committed to helping bridge the digital divide and increase broadband access in underserved communities throughout Southern California. 

Broadband Permit Streamlining

Broadband Permit Streamlining Thumbnail Cover ImageA lack of broadband infrastructure contributes to Southern California’s digital divide—the disparities in access to high-quality internet from community to community, and individual to individual. Removing permitting challenges—such as a lack of process transparency, high resource requirements, inconsistencies in fees, and long permitting processes—would ease infrastructure deployment and help bridge the digital divide.  

SCAG’s “Broadband Permit Streamlining Report” and “Broadband Permit Streamlining Model Ordinance” provide model permitting standards and practices to help local governments and permitting agencies streamline deployment of broadband infrastructure in underserved areas.