Infrastructure Limitations
Limited infrastructure inhibits commerce, connections
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Overview
Broadband Internet access, cell phone coverage, quality roads, public transportation—these networks are essential to daily life in modern working communities. In Vermont, such infrastructure is limited and unreliable. Even Vermont’s many traditional, low-tech workers and microenterprise need an adequate infrastructure to flourish in a highly connected, high-speed world market. Job searches and applications are fewer and slower without Internet access. Spotty cell phone service hinders communication. With limited public transportation, travel is more expensive and produces more pollution on an individual basis.
Fast Facts
- Cell phone coverage is poor even on primary state highways. High-speed Internet service is available in only 60% of the state. These gaps in service make Vermont less appealing for businesses of all types and sizes, and increase isolation among the state’s residents.
- Libraries represent one of the few places where low-income residents can access the Internet for job application, tax preparation and other needs.
- Inadequate public transportation is a problem throughout Vermont, all but stranding the working poor, the elderly and those needing regular medical treatment for chronic illnesses. It is commonplace for a Vermont senior citizen to pay $100 for a single trip to receive dialysis. For some, this travel expense means reducing the number of treatments against doctor’s orders.
Read more about infrastructure limitations in Understanding Vermont or get a copy of the entire publication.