For the sake of our economic future, Washington needs a phone company that is ready and eager to deliver broadband Internet service throughout the Evergreen state.
It looks like we could get one in the form of Frontier Communications — if the state approves the company’s acquisition of Verizon’s landline operations in Washington.
Frontier has a track record of providing broadband technology to rural states and is pursuing an expansion strategy aimed at smaller cities and suburbs. The combination of rural experience and an eye for growth in traditionally underserved areas seems to fit with the needs of our state. To remain competitive, we need to ensure that businesses in our state have access to the opportunities and advantages that broadband provides. Broadband is the 21st century technology that will help our traditional industries and even our farms stay competitive in a global marketplace.
It is also a fundamental requirement for attracting new high-tech industries and research facilities that have the potential to drive our economic growth.
Frontier understands the importance of broadband to Washington, and would be a productive partner in shaping the kind of future we need.
There is ample evidence that Frontier is prepared for this transaction. However, the most important reason for approving the transaction is Frontier’s commitment to support expanded broadband service in Washington.
Assuring the statewide availability of affordable broadband service is every bit as important as rural electrification was in the 1930s.
It would be shortsighted to stand in the way.
John Koster
Snohomish County Council
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