FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: info@aii.org
New Policy Brief Highlights Untapped Potential of Fiber Optics Beyond Broadband
Washington, D.C., May 13, 2025 – The Alliance for Innovation and Infrastructure (Aii) has released an insightful policy brief titled Beyond Broadband: Tapping the Multi-Use Advantages of Nationwide Fiber Optic Infrastructure, calling attention to a transformative technology that could redefine how America builds and manages its infrastructure.
While broadband deployment continues to expand, Aii’s latest analysis reveals that the nation’s growing network of fiber optic cables can serve dual purposes – delivering high-speed data while also acting as real-time sensors through Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing (DFOS) technology.
“DFOS presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to embed intelligence and safety into infrastructure without additional construction,” said Benjamin Dierker, Executive Director of Aii. “This is not only about internet access – it’s about maximizing private investment and taxpayer dollars to future-proof our systems.”
The brief outlines how DFOS can:
- Prevent utility damage and pipeline spills
- Detect unauthorized access and support national security
- Monitor bridges and utility corridors for structural health
- Enhance emergency preparedness, including earthquake detection
- Support real-time traffic analysis without disruptive sensor installation
Policy Recommendations encourage government and private stakeholders to consider multi-use advantages of fiber optic infrastructure and explore integrating DFOS into current and future infrastructure planning, especially through public-private partnerships and federal broadband initiatives.
As policymakers tackle infrastructure modernization, this policy brief urges leaders to consider DFOS as a scalable, low-maintenance solution that boosts safety, efficiency, and resilience across sectors—from energy and water to transportation and telecommunications.
The full policy brief is available here: https://www.aii.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Beyond-Broadband-Policy-Brief.pdf
###
The Alliance for Innovation and Infrastructure (Aii) is an independent, national research and educational organization working to advance innovation across industry and public policy. The only nationwide public policy think tank dedicated to infrastructure, Aii explores the intersection of economics, law, and public policy in the areas of climate, damage prevention, eminent domain, energy, infrastructure, innovation, technology, and transportation.