Last month, Google announced plans to build and test ultra high-speed broadband networks in a small number of trial locations across the United States. While the official list of cities and communities that applied hasn’t been released yet, looking at the map on Google’s site, there were obviously several communities in Oregon that applied or sent in a response. Sunriver was one of them.
The Sunriver Owner’s Association sent a release about why they’re doing it, created a site to keep the community updated, and created a video for their RFI response. They’ve also setup a twitter presence, for those of you who are into that sort of them (I’m not).
Many of their points make good sense, but considering the sheer number of folks who have applied (more than 1,100 communities responded, according to Google), and all the crazy tactics — one mayor promises a tattoo and other cities will rename themselves — it’s going to be a tough pitch. But considering the flat-out lack of really decent, reliable, high speed internet access out here (while I like the Cable company’s service and the people there, 100% reliable it is not), it might put them up the list over places that already have good service and a large quantity of fiber already underground.
Comments
Does SR meet the 50,000 people requirement? Can’t believe it does.
@Jeff: Their argument was that this area gets much more than 50,000 visitors annually, which was their rationale for applying. It’s a bit of a stretch, but they’re going for it.
Lame. Google will have way more sense than to go for this. There are communities where 100% fiber will make a real impact in business development, education, social services, etc..
A place where people visit for a few days at a time, mostly avoid doing work, and educate few should be at the bottom (the very bottom) of Google’s rankings.
I’d be embarrassed to have submitted that application.
I hope You Come To San Leandro, CA 94577.
Thank You For All You Have Done For US.