In the Beginning
In 1987 Iowa officials decided to proceed because of their concerns about the steady decline of many of the state's rural communities. They hoped that declining farm employment in some communities might be offset by the careful nurturing of knowledge-intensive industries. "Almost everyone who looks at rural development today says this is a key," said Gov. Terry E. Branstad, an early backer of the project.
It was clear early on that the established local and long-distance telephone companies did not have the financial incentives to replace their existing networks with high-capacity fiber quickly, and that they had even less interest in providing such services to thinly populated regions.
"We concluded that if we really wanted to serve all of Iowa, we had to at least build the backbone," Governor Branstad said.
Iowa is broadcasting college classes on portions of the state-owned network, which will consist of a 2,800-mile web of thin glass fibers that will connect all 99 counties when it is finished next fall. Other uses planned for the network include voice, data and video communications among state agencies, distributing lottery tickets, updating voter registration lists and letting libraries exchange materials electronically.
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Found the above information online today.? I found Governor Branstad’s vision interesting.
"From vision to reality, just as Nelson Mandela once said, 'It always seems impossible until it's done.' ?? Inspiring to see such dedication towards a greener future! By the way, if you're passionate about making a significant impact, there's an exciting sponsorship opportunity for the Guinness World Record of Tree Planting happening soon. ?? You might find it interesting: https://bit.ly/TreeGuinnessWorldRecord"
It's incredible how vision and determination can transform ideas into reality! ?? As Walt Disney once said, "If you can dream it, you can do it." Your achievements stand as a testament to this timeless wisdom. Keep inspiring! ???