The City of Pittsfield believes that broadband Internet access is an essential utility. Fast, reliable, and affordable access to the Internet is vital to all aspects of life within our city. From running a business, to obtaining an education, creating a masterpiece, discovering a scientific breakthrough, or catching up on a favorite show, we want our citizens to have world class Internet access.

Although Pittsfield has not traditionally been underserved by corporate Internet providers, we could be better served, and we must look to the future. Currently, we are at the mercy of large, corporate Internet service providers (ISP) who may or may not choose to further invest in Internet infrastructure in Pittsfield. Take Verizon FiOS for example. Verizon installed Fiber to the Premise (FTTP) in their Albany and Boston markets, but chose not to invest in small and midsized markets including Pittsfield. Each year businesses and consumers demand more bandwidth. Continued lack of investment in Internet infrastructure will leave Pittsfield at a competitive disadvantage, resulting in severe damage to the local economy.

As an ISP, the city would be able to provide broadband Internet access services, either fully or partially, to residents and business owners. Municipalities that have successfully become ISPs have been able to provide residents and businesses fiber optic internet that is fairly priced. A feasibility study would provide insight into this possibility by identifying the need, examining existing infrastructure and related personnel costs, and completing a cost benefits analysis.