Originally posted on Data Center POST.

At the inaugural event of The In-Building Wireless Association (TIWA), a regional forum connecting commercial real estate, healthcare, government, and technology sectors with the wireless industry, featured a standout panel titled “Use Cases + Solutions for the Future of In-Building Connectivity.” The panel brought together leaders from government, real estate, and technology to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of indoor wireless infrastructure. The panel, moderated by Steve Yapsuga, featured Teryn Zmuda (National Association of Counties), Cecilia Li (Urban Edge Properties), Nick Stello (Vornado), Kishore Raja (InfiniG), Howard Buzick (American Bandwidth), and Mike Wasjgras (RK2).

Economic Trends, Federal Funding, and the Demand for Connectivity

The discussion opened with a look at how high interest rates and economic factors influence infrastructure investment. Panelists highlighted the impact of federal initiatives, such as the $65 billion allocated for high-speed internet access nationwide, which is driving new opportunities for public-private partnerships.

Teryn Zmuda, Chief Economist at National Association of Counties, emphasized the public sector’s responsibility: Counties across the nation invest about $700 billion in services every year, with about 20% going to infrastructure. Connectivity is at the highest demand level I’ve ever seen in my career.”  Zmuda stressed the need for responsible investment, transparency, and serving the public—especially in critical facilities like hospitals and emergency operation centers.

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