Key Takeaways from DVRPC & TLC's Digital Access Forum

In May, TLC and the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) co-hosted the Digital Access Forum: A Regional Conversation on Infrastructure, Tools, and Skills. 

While this meeting was not recorded, we have compiled key takeaways from the conversation and accompanying resources to support those working on digital access issues. The takeaways (included below), resources, and DVRPC’s presentation are available to view here.

Key Takeaways

Implementation Challenges

1. Infrastructure ownership and coordination with ISPs introduces legal and financial risk. 
   
2. Public data on digital access is often insufficient. Outreach is needed to understand community needs. 
   
3. Funding uncertainties create difficulty for sustaining momentum. 
   

Collaboration and Partnerships

1. Demonstrate impact through small wins, which lead to greater buy-in and bigger wins.
   
2. Share stories and identify specific needs to connect with decision makers and potential partners.
   
3. Highlight the economic value of digital investments.

Implementation Strategies

1. Take a holistic approach to address individual communities’ gaps in access. 
   
2. Leverage community strengths and anchor institutions to build partnerships and programs.
   
3. Connect digital infrastructure needs to other infrastructure projects and networks.

The post-event survey results showed that attendees found value in the focused breakout sessions and are interested in continuing to convene as a region about digital access issues.

More information about DVRPC’s digital access work can be found on their website.