The high-speed rail route that might someday stretch from Sacramento to San Diego could be a means to build out high-speed broadband across the state.
That's the idea behind a non-binding memorandum of understanding that the California High-Speed Rail Authority recently signed with the nonprofit called CENIC that operates the California Research and Education Network (CalREN), which serves schools, universities, cities and libraries.
The two parties say they'll work together to develop a business plan and strategic plan — including network design, deployment, funding, operation and management — for a high-speed network that utilizes their shared infrastructure.
"Just as the creation of a high-speed rail system connects the mega-regions of the state with a world-class transportation infrastructure and related economic opportunities so, too, will it provide an exceptional platform for establishing a high-capacity (Gigabit and beyond) telecommunications network infrastructure required by private and public sector institutions for the 21st Century. For many communities this ultra-fast broadband infrastructure will be as transformative as the accompanying high-speed rail services, and both will create jobs, new opportunities, and increased economic prosperity [in] the state," the MOU says.
The Rail Authority and CENIC said they will welcome participation by other organizations from the private, public and government sectors in order to achieve the goal.
“This new network will provide needed connectivity for communities located near the high-speed rail system starting in the Central Valley,” said Rail Authority CEO Jeff Morales. “This partnership and new network will advance economic development and public benefit while generating ancillary revenue for the high-speed rail program,” said Morales.
“This strategic undertaking of the High-Speed Rail Program and CENIC is critical to California’s continued advancement in all realms of innovation,” said Louis Fox, president, and CEO of CENIC. “Our future relies on the engagement of all Californians in the digital economy, and this project will provide them with the necessary infrastructure that positions California for a prosperous future.”
