In comments to the Federal Communications Commission, ITIF argues that efficient access to rights of way and municipal infrastructure to deploy wireless infrastructure will be essential to securing U.S. leadership in developing a robust Internet ecosystem around advanced wireless capabilities and seeing a flourishing of civic applications of next-generation networks. ITIF strongly supports efforts to spur deployment of next generation broadband, including the elimination of unnecessary red-tape or unreasonable fees. Streamlining small cell deployment will be key to lowering the transaction costs of deploying 5G systems—the FCC should clarify its interpretation of its statutory mandate to ensure siting fees are transparent and cost-based.
