General Information
Covid-19 highlighted the need for reliable broadband for every area of the community: health, education, business, remote working, faith practices, community connection, etc. The Pandemic has substantially raised the issue of the need for reliable Broadband in rural communities at the federal, state, and local levels.
The Pandemic has compounded some of our existing issues further.
For example:
More broadly, there is real help available at the State and Federal level to help communities like ours get the technology we need.
Here’s what we know:
If we were to bring Broadband to our communities - what would change?
The Pandemic has compounded some of our existing issues further.
For example:
- Community is unequally served: internet coverage is inconsistent
- Some areas have no access to internet services at all
- Best internet remains at the Library and Schools
- Current providers are close to capacity with soon-to-be outdated technology.
More broadly, there is real help available at the State and Federal level to help communities like ours get the technology we need.
Here’s what we know:
- Maine ranks near the bottom in the Nation for internet connectivity, behind all New England states
- Federal and state governments are committed to supporting broadband expansion into rural communities
- Funds and support now available for rural communities
- 2021 - State of Maine has made $15m available
- 2021 - Federal government providing $129m to the state
- Opportunity is now – and 10+ years from now
- Growing examples of how towns have improved with Broadband installations in Maine, New England and across the country
- Neighboring towns on the Blue Hill Peninsula are pursuing broadband for their communities
- Access to funding
If we were to bring Broadband to our communities - what would change?
- Create opportunities for our youth by giving them greater access to employment opportunities/entrepreneurship – from right here in our beautiful towns
- Provide solutions to key workforce challenges: distance learning, remote working
- Improve delivery and reduce costs of key services e.g., health care and education
- Help retain local businesses and residents
- Provide jobs, attract new industry, create opportunities
- Improve property values – buyers increasingly expect internet connectivity
- Support businesses that wish to trade 365
- Offer greater access to online entertainment/recreation