The Washington Policy Center has recently signed onto a letter urging the Federal Government to be cautious about the proposals for increasing spending on broadband infrastructure. Certainly, broadband investment is a good thing for underserved communities, but the way in which the money is spent will determine the long-term success of the investments.

The letter, addressed to the House and Senate, identifies five key areas to consider when allocating broadband investment funds.

1. Congress Should Not Spend Funds Where the Private Sector Will Invest
2. Congress Should Only Spend After the FCC Has Created Accurate Map
3. Any Spending Must Focus on Unserved Areas and Be Technologically Neutral
4. Any Plan Should Avoid Funding Government Run Network
5. Red Tape Must Be Removed to Ensure Taxpayers See Maximum Return on Investment

The government can play an important role in filling in the gaps in the unserved areas of our country. However, the investment must be carefully targeted. America’s internet infrastructure is one of the best in the world because of investment by the private sector and once again, the private sector must lead the way.

You can read the letter in full, here.