That’s the part I think is so interesting. From what I’ve been reading, folks don’t think that Google is interested in playing for the long term but instead merely wants to demonstrate that high speed broadband can be delivered cost effectively and with open internet principles intact. Perhaps to shame the incumbents or perhaps to encourage more competitors to enter the marketplace. It will certainly be interesting to watch.

The tests are determined by and RFP so, any interested community should apply. As for the school situation–I read headlines but am fuzzy on details so….no comment for the moment.

Technically the broadband plan and the net neutrality rules are moving on separate tracks but they are indeed related in many people’s minds (including, in my opinion, the FCC’s.) Notice that Google’s test project includes open internet (i.e. network neutrality) principles. I think Google intends to show the incumbent ISPs that faster internet can indeed be provided profitably with net neutrality principles in place. If they succeed, it should improve competition in the ISP market and be a good thing for consumers.

Google’s announcement didn’t specify. I guess we’ll learn more as it is rolled out.

Its precisely the diminishing returns that Google is trying to address. Obviously, this is not a wholly benevolent move on their part–google benefits from faster speeds, more downloads, higher usage but IMHO its a good move for all internet users.

But, have you been following the news this week on the school that gave out computers and were spying via web cams on the students. Now that is wrong.

I like that the private sector (Google) is doing their part, but anything via Google feels just as Big Brothery as the U.S. Government stepping in, so I have mixed feelings.

Regarding school children and their use, anything Internet related is an elective for our children and they have to fight to get into these classes, so funding toward that effort would be amazing (and the children need it as colleges now expect web proficiency).

I support a national broadband plan but I fear how it will be executed, who will oversee it and which politicians will get their fingers in the mix that have no business doing so.

Melanie, how does net neutrality play into this overall plan?