The Alabama Department of Economic Affairs has been hard at work over the last few months pressing forward to assure that broadband Internet service is more available for those in need by starting its ConnectingALABAMA program.
“It’s an effort to help increase access to broadband Internet service in areas without affordable options,” said Mike Presley, ADECA spokesman.
“We know how important it is for many aspects of life such as finding health care such to have this technology.”
According to the latest press release July 9 by ADECA’s Executive Director Jessica Dent, “Rapid advances in technology are making broadband access increasingly important for health care delivery, economic development, education, citizen engagement, public safety and other functions that are fundamental to a successful and healthy Alabama.”
The program is sponsored by the $1.9 million in economic stimulus funds awarded by the U.S. Department of Commerce.
ConnectingALABAMA was created by Gov. Bob Riley. With the funding it received as well as development of broadband maps, directors can help communities identify barriers and develop solutions to increase high-speed Internet availability.
“We have been working for six months to identify gaps in coverage for service, so we can better identify those who are really in need of our help,” Dent said.
The newest addition to the program is a mapping tool, which will allow program directors to further carry out the goal of bringing Alabama up to speed. It is available for viewing at www.connectingalabama.gov and provides a detailed picture of high-speed Internet availability in Alabama.
“One of the biggest issues we have is that our subscribership percentage in Alabama is very low, 49 percent versus the national average of 63 percent,” Dent said.
Program associates feel that by providing more affordable services and increasing these numbers that the quality of life can be improved for those living in Alabama.
The state has been divided into 12 different sections to better identify and seek out the areas without coverage. The first regional meeting, which includes Autauga, Elmore, and Montgomery counties, is scheduled for 1 p.m. July 20 at the state Capitol Auditorium in Montgomery.
“The participation of he public, along with business and government, is essential,” Dent said. “Deployment of infrastructure through public and private businesses will determine how quickly we can proceed.”
The program is expected to reach a wide variety of communities, but specifically rural areas and small communities with few to no providers in the area.
“Broadband is becoming vital for people to possess these days,” Presley said.
With compliance from the various public and private sectors involved in making this possible, and with some luck, soon Alabama will be surfing the Web with broadband high-speed Internet.
For more information and the latest updates regarding ADECA and the Alabama Broadband Initiative, check out www.connectingalabama.gov.