North Texas Innovation Alliance (NTXIA) has announced the re-launch of the “Internet for North Texas Coalition” (I4NTX) in partnership with the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG). This coalition represents a collaborative effort across North Texas to prioritize broadband infrastructure and access, with the goal of achieving digital equity for all residents, SmartCitiesWorld reported.
NTXIA is a regional consortium comprising some 40 municipalities, agencies, corporations, and academic institutions across North Texas, working to create the “most connected, smart and resilient region in the country.”
“The I4NTX Coalition aims to revive the intent of Operation Connectivity and work with cross-sector teams to bring broadband access to more households throughout North Texas, leveraging the established coalition built by the NTXIA,” said Jennifer Sanders, executive director of NTXIA. Sanders points out that the program not only recognizes internet access as a crucial transportation mode, but also establishes a robust framework for promoting widespread digital inclusivity across the North Texas region.
NTXIA, together with the NCTCOG and members of the Texas Governor’s Broadband Council, will lead this initiative, building on the work of the Dallas-focused Internet for All Coalition while expanding efforts to the regional level.
Originally launched in 2020 as Operation Connectivity, the Internet for All Coalition highlighted disparities in broadband access at the school district and neighborhood level, setting a target of connecting every K-16 student to high-speed broadband at home.
The I4NTX Coalition will engage public and academic entities across the region to address key elements and challenges of broadband efforts, including data, policy, infrastructure, and equitable access.
The Coalition will also lead a subcommittee of 20 to 30 public sector practitioners who will advise elected officials from the Regional Transportation Council to form a legislative program that addresses regional digital needs with the Texas legislature. It will also encourage local municipalities to designate broadband technical leads and share best practices for achieving universal broadband access.
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