Carolyn McIntyre

Equity in Infrastructure Development: The Digital Divide

Jackie Botts, Michael P. Anderson, Carolyn McIntyre, Sunne McPeak, Alexandra Rosen, David Lesher, Matt Horton

Co-hosted by CalMatters and the Milken Institute, a recent forum examined the critical role of high-speed broadband in addressing California's digital divide and promoting workforce equity. The discussion highlighted that while the state approved a $6 billion investment package to fund middle-mile infrastructure and last-mile expansion, significant barriers including high costs, digital literacy gaps, and inefficient permitting processes continue to hinder access for 2 million disadvantaged households. Experts emphasized that achieving true connectivity requires a hybrid approach combining fiber and wireless solutions, alongside public-private partnerships and targeted outreach to communities skeptical of traditional internet service providers.