I’ve recently seen a number of articles and columns discussing how the expiration of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) spectrum authority means that next generation connectivity, like 5G, deployment is slowing down in many rural areas around the United States and Washington.
As a woman who often adventures alone, I can’t tell you the number of times that the lack of connectivity has been a problem for me. When hiking in the North Cascades, climbing Mount Baker, and most importantly, getting to the trailhead, I rely on GPS and other tools to help me safely navigate the terrain. Too often, my cellphone has had no or limited service, increasing the level of risk these solo trips bring. Having more consistent connectivity in these moments is immensely helpful and provides me with peace of mind, knowing if something goes wrong, I have access to the outside world.
As I understand the conversation around this dense policy debate, I can’t help but notice the real-world consequences. If the FCC regains the ability to auction and allocate spectrum radio waves, future connectivity could be strengthened and improved in many areas, including many of the places still on my list to adventure to.
Congress has an opportunity to reauthorize the agency’s authority and create a future plan of spectrum that can be turned on to connect new devices and reach new areas. Look, I know some of the places we explore, whether on a mountain or deep in a trail, will not suddenly be connected, but policymakers on both sides of the aisle should be making every effort toward the expansion of wireless connectivity. It has the power to transform the limits of adventure.
Jill Barclay
Centralia
