The city of Portland, Oregon, is at a crossroads when it comes to internet access for its citizens. Despite having an advanced broadband fiber optic network called IRNE (Integrated Regional Network Enterprise) in place for 24 years, many residents still face serious difficulties in accessing internet services that are both affordable and fast. This issue has raised growing concerns among various local groups and organizations committed to protecting and expanding digital rights.
In response to this situation, the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), along with groups like the Personal TelCo Project and Community Broadband PDX, are urging mayoral candidates and city council members to support a model of open access to the city’s infrastructure. This initiative proposes the possibility for the municipality to lease the so-called “dark fiber” of the IRNE network. With this measure, it is hoped that community cooperatives, local businesses, and non-profit organizations can offer their own internet services, increasing competition in the market and benefiting more residents with more affordable and better quality options.
The campaign’s goal is to leverage the existing structure of the IRNE network and propose policies that facilitate public fiber access to all local communities. “It’s more viable to expand an existing program like IRNE than to start from scratch,” says Jennifer Redman, president of Community Broadband PDX. Redman emphasizes that deploying the IRNE network could pave the way for policies that include fiber infrastructure in all future city developments.
Additionally, Russell Senior, president of the Personal TelCo Project, criticizes the existing model of private internet providers. He points out that these providers maintain high prices that negatively impact users and suggests that money allocated to these companies could have a more positive impact if it stayed within the local community. “Unrestricted access would mean those funds would circulate within our community,” Senior states.
While other areas in Oregon already enjoy affordable and publicly-owned fiber optic networks, Portland still faces considerable challenges. The lack of competition has resulted in expensive and low-quality services compared to surrounding areas, prompting local groups to urge authorities to take action to ensure equitable and efficient internet access in the city.
For these reasons, campaign organizers are calling on the community to join their efforts. They invite citizens to participate in events that not only inform about the importance of connectivity but also promote digital literacy and online security. They also demand that municipal officials sign a commitment to advance towards a more fair and accessible internet system for all.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
