Google: Fiber for Communities Initiative
Google recently announced plans to deploy an experimental, high speed fiber network to be a select few communities that they feel would benefit from its deployment. This fiber network, while being offered at competitive prices, will be around 50-200 times faster than typical cable and DSL modems found in most homes today. Google recently began accepting Requests for Information (RFI) from local governments to see which communities would best qualify. More Info
In order to keep the community of Bowling Green, KY on the cutting edge of technology we have recently submitted a request to be considered for this project. The City feels that it many aspects of Bowling Green could greatly benefit as the community shifts to a more knowledge-based, technology-driven economy.
Business
Bowling Green's high income and job growth combined with a low cost of doing business has led the city to be ranked 19th in Forbes Magazine's 2009 list of the "Best Small Places for Business".
It is also home to many major industry businesses, including the General Motors Corvette Plant, Holley Performance Products, Houchens Industries, Fruit of the Loom, Camping World, ShopNBC, and many more.
Education
Bowling Green also serves as an academic hub for South Central KY and is home to Western Kentucky University (over 20,000 enrolled students), Bowling Green Technical College, and the Daymar Institute. The county also provides a full service public library system with four permanent locations.
All of these institutions would be at a great advantage with access to a high speed, fiber network. With a network of this speed, students could easily collaborate with classmates around the world in real time and watch live HD video of distant university lectures.
Medical Services
Bowling Green is also home to two major hospital facilities, The Medical Center and Greenview Regional Hospital, both of which serve as excellent care facilities for the South Central Kentucky region. While the Medical Center provides a comprehensive cardiac program (including open heart surgery) and cancer treatments, Greenview Regional Hospital has already began the transition to electronic medical administration by being one of the first hospitals in the country to use the eMAR (electronic Medication Records) system.
With the added benefit of a fiber network, these facilities could advance their use of technology. For example, with a fiber network you could be located in a local health clinic, while streaming 3D medical imaging over the web to a specialist in New York City to review.
The benefits of a high-speed network like this are definately numerous! While the City of Bowling Green has already submitted its application to be considered for this ground breaking project, we need you to do your part. If you would like to see this possibility become a reality, tell Google why Bowling Green deserves to be on the cutting edge.
The deadline for nominations is March 26th, so hurry and make your voice heard
