Connectivity is a necessity in today’s digital world. Economic opportunity, educational advancement, health and safety, social mobility, and civic engagement are increasingly tied to the widespread availability of high-speed digital communication. Broadband is often discussed as a “common good,” which is defined as something that a community provides to all members in order to fulfill a collective obligation to care for certain interests that all members have in common. Examples of common goods include
roadways, public safety services, a judicial system, public schools, parks, cultural institutions, and public transportation, as well as clean air and water.

Broadband access is a key factor for the success of small businesses and economic development
because it is essential for day-to-day operations.

This paper examines the lengthy process the town experienced on its journey to connectivity, and it measures the impact broadband has had on Red Cliff residents.

A map of the Missouri Natural Gas Pipelines