OpenCape"This federal award will help OpenCape build a regional network that supports innovation and cutting-edge research, leading to new economic opportunities and enhanced public safety for the entire region," said Judy Dumont, Director of the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI). "The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative's John Adams Innovation Institute and the MBI both provided long-term support to OpenCape, and we congratulate the entire OpenCape team on winning this federal award. Deploying broadband in underserved areas in western Massachusetts and the Cape is a mission of economic justice and fundamental fairness that addresses a critical need for individuals who have been forced to go without for far too long. The MBI's mission continues as we work to close the digital divide from Provincetown to Pittsfield." Through its $5 million state match, the MBI helped OpenCape leverage a $32 million federal stimulus award in 2010. Open Cape is a non-profit organization constructing a comprehensive middle mile communications network to expand broadband access throughout Cape Cod, the Islands and the South Coast. The open access network will support the economic, educational, public safety and governmental needs of southeastern Massachusetts. The Commonwealth has successfully leveraged $31.2 million in state bond funds to attract an additional $81.5 million in federal stimulus funding for related broadband infrastructure and improvement in Massachusetts, including MassBroadband 123 and OpenCape. For more information on OpenCape, please visit their website at www.opencape.com. |
