Obama seeks more broadband space

President Obama will announce plans Friday to expand broadband and provide more access for wireless Internet users.

Obama plans to sign a memorandum directing federal agencies to be more efficient in their use of the broadband spectrum, creating more room for consumers and businesses, a White House statement said.

The administration plans to announce a $100 million program for spectrum sharing and advanced communication.

It plans a "Spectrum Technology Day" designed "to showcase advances in spectrum sharing and other innovations aimed at solving the so-called 'spectrum crunch,'" the statement said.

The White House will release a report called "Four Years of Broadband Growth," detailing previous efforts in this area.

The White House said:

"Connecting the middle class to the benefits of the digital age is a critical piece of the President's economic plan.

"To create jobs and grow wages at home, and to compete in the global information economy, we have a national imperative to deliver fast, affordable and reliable service to all corners of the United States. Moreover, the construction of broadband infrastructure itself is a major driver of American investment and job creation."