Wireless Broadband Concept Moves Toward Reality

Commission will review private lease proposals worth millions

Columbia, SC- The Senate today concurred with House amendments to H.4735, a joint resolution establishing the South Carolina Educational Broadband Service Commission. The commission will review proposals from private entities desiring to lease the excess closed-circuit spectrum that will soon become available on ETV’s statewide network. Private lease agreements could net the state millions. Estimated market value of the excess spectrum ranges from $70 million to over $160 million.

“I am excited this landmark opportunity now moves from concept to reality,” says Senator Luke Rankin (R-Horry). “Expanded availability of public and private high-speed internet services will allow South Carolinians to more effectively compete in the 21st century global market place”. Senator Rankin chaired the Senate subcommittee that developed the idea behind the Broadband Service Commission.

Although similar, the digital conversion opening up the broadband spectrum is not associated with the digital conversion of the television broadcast signal scheduled for February of 2009. The expanded availability of wireless broadband will be available after ETV converts a closed-circuit system it currently uses to provide topic specific programming used by teachers in the classroom. The seven-member commission will oversee the final execution of all agreements resulting from an approved proposal and will be dissolved no later than June 30, 2010.

The bill will now be placed in line for ratification before heading to the Governor’s office for his signature.

###

Subscribe in a reader