San Jose9 adopts updated digital empowerment and broadband strategy, sets aspirational gigabit goal
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Summary
Council accepted the library-led digital empowerment and broadband strategy that seeks to close the digital divide through partnership models, sets an FCC-equivalent baseline standard and establishes an aspirational goal of a gigabit for all residents by 2030; the strategy was approved unanimously after broad public and industry support.
The San Jose9 City Council voted Dec. 16 to adopt an updated citywide digital empowerment and broadband strategy intended to close persistent access and adoption gaps across the city.
Library leaders and staff presented a three-part plan: stabilize long-term funding for digital-inclusion programs and training, pursue universal availability of gigabit-capable service (with an aspirational goal of one gigabit download for every household by 2030), and improve permitting and processes to accelerate private investment and municipal partnerships. Staff recommended adopting a resolution to align city policy with a baseline speed standard equivalent to the Federal Communications Commission's benchmark (presented in the meeting as 100 Mbps download/20 Mbps upload) while also declaring an aspirational symmetric gigabit target.
Presenters highlighted progress since 2017 (an estimated increase of tens of thousands of connected homes), the growth of fixed wireless and small-cell deployments, targeted library-led training and community technology centers supported by a municipal Fund for Digital Inclusion. Industry partners (AT&T, T-Mobile, ATIT, Comcast) and advocates testified in favor, offering examples of investments and grants; several noted permitting streamlining and public'private partnerships as keys to expansion. Councilmembers pressed staff on affordability, fiber adoption rates (cited roughly 37% citywide), and accountability for progress.
Council approved the staff recommendations unanimously.
Why it matters: The strategy frames the city's role as a convenor and partner, not full municipal ISP operator, and emphasizes equity by coupling infrastructure goals with training, device access and affordability measures.
What happens next: Staff will implement the strategy, pursue funding and report back on progress as part of the 2027 workplan and future budget cycles.