THE “NEXT MILE” PROJECT broadband solutions for Colorado The San Luis Valley “Real-Time” Data / Telecommunications Project Phase I

THE PURPOSE To create a statewide initiative from a local project, that demonstrates how rural communities can take advantage of broadband access by connecting programs that have been implemented and successful in the San Luis Valley as early as 1994.

THE PROJECT Connect the six county courthouses of the San Luis Valley, to create a system of shared “real-time” data sets that will be used for regional planning and statewide information benefiting economic and community self development. Lead Agency Funded By In Partnership With

“REAL-TIME” DATA SETS  “Real-Time” data sets available to key public entities, i.e.. Valley  State, State  Valley.  Examples of data sets include; housing starts / building permits / clerks office.  Key public entities include; County Commissioners, clerks, assessors, sheriffs and planners.  Cohesive network of critical information.  Shared responsibilities between State and Region for planning demographics for more efficient day to day operations.  Creates competitive advantage for business development equal to metropolitan environments.  Critical for emergency preparedness and homeland defense.

INTEGRATED COMMUNICATIONS Regional Conejos Costilla Alamosa Rio Grande Saguache Mineral Ability To Share “Real Time” Data Sets

PHASE I – STEPS TO TAKE: 1) Get 6 county “Buy In” for the concept from county commissioners. 2) Complete inventory of existing and needed infrastructure. 3) Conduct series of “how to” meetings with local area telecommunications users and providers to include phone companies, community leaders and end users. 4) Present the Governor with a plan that details how to accomplish the project in the San Luis Valley, prior to his State of the State Address in January, In the 2004 State of The State Address, the Governor will “Roll-Out” this plan and announce the potential for networking the rest of Colorado.

BIG PICTURE: “Real-Time” Information Systems That Create Unlimited Economic/Community Development Opportunities For All Of Colorado. quality of life economic opportunity freedom

THE “NEXT MILE” The San Luis Valley “Real-Time” Data Sets / Telecommunications Project Phase I For More Information Please Contact: Michael Wisdom, Executive Director Co-Director The “Next Mile” Project Kristin Johnston, Co-Director The “Next Mile” Project