[donohoe]

There is not much competition in most neighborhoods in NYC, only in the nicer (more wealthier) neighborhoods. This is badly needed for this city.

>> First, foster competition.

The ISPs don't really compete. They lock in certain areas and then harvest it over the years.

>> it's not uncommon for a residency to have effectively a single option for ISP.

Same here. My building has options for Verizon FIOS and Charter/Spectrum and I count myself lucky. Thats usually not the case. In many places I've rented you're stuck with one provider.

>> Second could the government offer public internet?

A municipal ISPs proposal would be challenged in the courts by these ISPs. This scheme is less invasive to the marketplace than that, no?

>> Only as a last resort...

Yes - thats why its happening imho.