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Advancements in wireless connectivity can’t come fast enough for today’s tech-savvy and data-driven consumers. That is why investments in new wireless infrastructure is important for those living in Hawaii and elsewhere across our country. Read more

When most consumers think about infrastructure improvements, they think about roads, bridges and highways — and not about the technologies that make high-speed broadband and wireless connections possible. But imagine what life would be like without cellular phone calls, text messaging or email — even streaming video. Advancements in wireless connectivity can’t come fast enough for today’s tech-savvy and data-driven consumers. That is why investments in new wireless infrastructure is important for those living in Hawaii and elsewhere across our country.

The number of wireless customers in Hawaii continues to grow. Today, there are more than 1.4 million wireless users in Hawaii – this number doesn’t represent the approximately 9 million visitors to the state each year carrying their own mobile devices. Wireless networks here are reaching capacity limits and unless enhancements are made to them soon, customers could experience slower data speeds, shrinking coverage and dropped calls.

Fortunately, wireless companies are willing to make the necessary investments in their local networks to boost capacity, enhance service and pave the way for fifth generation (5G) wireless networks and will be using. By investing in Hawaii’s wireless future, carriers will be bringing consumers here the most advanced wireless experience possible — all while bolstering the economy.

A recent report by Accenture estimates that once deployed, 5G networks are expected to contribute $500 billion to the U.S. economy and add up to 3 million jobs. Given that the state is looking to add 80,000 high tech jobs by 2030, investments in new wireless networks couldn’t come at a better time.

That’s the good news.

In addition, with the increase in IoT (Internet of Things) devices, smart city infrastructure and environmental sensors, there is a growing need for a ubiquitous network beyond the limitations of LTE and wifi.

5G networks hold that promise.

The bad news is, the wireless industry is facing obstacles when it comes to modernizing its infrastructure. Carriers have begun investing in and deploying low-power small cells — wireless antennas — to densify their networks. These small cells are often mounted to utility poles or street lamps and blend into the existing environment unlike traditional “macro” cell towers, which are much larger in size. Aesthetically this is much more appealing as it does not impact the skyline with artificial structures. Hundreds of thousands of these new small cells are needed in communities large and small to enhance current networks and handle the wireless traffic of tomorrow.

Unfortunately, the current regulatory environment makes it difficult for wireless companies to deploy innovative small-cell technology in a timely and cost-efficient manner in communities across Hawaii. This is why the state’s leading wireless carriers and telecom operators are encouraging lawmakers to pass House Bill 625 and Senate Bill 1201, which would streamline the state and municipal review processes and allow wireless providers (and the state and municipalities for that matter) more certainty to leverage the technology.

What could arguably be the biggest advantage of small cell deployment is the impact it will have on Hawaii’s largest economic driver — tourism. Having a strong wireless network will help the state continue to attract national and international visitors. It will also encourage companies to stay local and build their businesses here, rather than taking their talents and resources off island where better opportunities and a more mobile-friendly environment is guaranteed.

Encourage the Legislature to send this important policy to the governor’s desk — and in doing so, we can qualitatively enhance the lives of consumers, as well as the state’s own economy, for years, if not decades, to come.

Burt Lum is co-host of Bytemarks Café on Hawaii Public Radio and a technology advocate.