Urban populations are expected to account for 68% of the global population, putting unprecedented strain on cities’ infrastructure. This rapid urbanisation is exposing critical gaps that compromise residents’ quality of life, from inefficient essential services to grid and water-management deficiencies. The implications are particularly profound for underserved communities, where infrastructure and basic services may already be lacking. Municipal leaders, policymakers, and sustainability directors are now grappling with the challenge of ensuring their cities evolve in a way that is both technologically advanced and equitable and inclusive.
Connectivity is at the heart of this challenge. In the United States alone, an estimated 14.5 million people still lack access to reliable broadband, creating vast “broadband deserts” that exacerbate social and economic divides. These areas, often rural or underserved urban communities, are left behind in a digital age where access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity. This issue transcends technology—it strikes at the core of equity and social justice. It’s also one of the key reasons programs like BEAD have garnered so much attention, including amongAI experts developing connectivity solutions. Ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their geographic location, have access to healthcare, education, and other critical connected services is vital for fostering inclusive rural and urban growth.
