The USPS inspector general has recommended that the Postal Service explore leasing land to commercial Internet service providers as part of the national broadband infrastructure initiative.
USPS can assist the broadband initiative through a public / private partnership with commercial ISPs to provide facilities and land for the expansion of the broadband infrastructure, making ISP operations in underserved areas more affordable, the IG said.
Specifically it recommended a master lease agreement to Postal Service real estate and installing wireless Fidelity Hotspots in these areas.
However, postal management disagreed with the recommendation, citing a need for significant funding to further infrastructure development and provide incentives for ISPs in rural markets.
