This paper explores how local governments are capable of providing access to high-speed broadband internet to local, rural, communities through municipal broadband networks. By using current networks as a basis for analysis, this paper also offers insight into some best practices that local leaders can adopt.
The Public Purpose
The Graduate Journal of American University's School of Public Affairs
Daniel Emirkhanian
A Map for the Future: Oklahoma City’s Metropolitan Area Projects as a Case Study for Successful Urban Planning
In 1993, Oklahoma City (OKC) introduced the Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS), a successful sales-tax funded program to revitalize the city. MAPS 3 is the third wave of this program, funding several infrastructure projects including the OKC Convention Center and the Riversport Rapids whitewater rafting and kayaking center. MAPS 3 serves as a case study for a successful government revitalization project with effective community collaboration, bringing together citizens through community meetings and a citizen advisory board, businesses through robust support by the OKC Chamber of Commerce, and over two decades of city leadership. MAPS 3 was successful because of four key elements: (1) A one-percent sales tax that ensures efficiency and transparency; (2) Community engagement that generates support for the project initiatives; (3) A citizen advisory board that maximizes efficient flow and encourages representativeness and; (4) Public-private partnerships that allocate resources efficiently and involve the private sector in city development.