Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners commits to countywide broadband equity

submitted by Lisa Moutinho, Washtenaw County

At its meeting August 7, the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners reaffirmed a commitment to countywide broadband equity by 2022 by allocating $35,000 to pursue broadband grant preparedness. Currently, 16 townships in our county have significant populations that are categorized by the FCC as un/under-served, a digital divide that impedes access to information, education, medical resources, economic prosperity and communication. While Federal, State and local broadband grant opportunities exist, each requires specific data to accompany applications. 

The Broadband Task Force, with representatives from each of these affected municipalities will be utilizing the funding provided by the Board of Commissioners to conduct a survey that will assess the level of broadband coverage available in our rural areas and asks residents to express their initial interest in a broadband service that meets the FCC standards of reliable internet. That survey is expected to be conducted in the fourth quarter of this year, with the results available to be submitted with grant applications in early 2020. 

District 1 Commissioner Jason Maciejewski reinforced his affirmative vote for the funding by adding, “With this allocation the Broadband Task Force will be able to collect and compile critical data in preparation for future grant applications that could bring millions of dollars to expand service into unserved areas. Increasing broadband service throughout the county would have significant impacts on education, health care and economic development.”

Commissioner Shannon Beeman, who represents District 3, added, “The Broadband Task Force highlights our dedication to ensuring all residents have access to the resources necessary to succeed. From our children to our workforce, access to the internet is crucial to stay competitive in a society becoming evermore reliant on technology. We are excited to move forward with this initiative and do the work to afford every resident the same opportunities across Washtenaw County.”

Barbara Fuller, Chair of the Broadband Task Force states, “The Broadband Task Force (BBTF) thanks the Board of County Commissioners for recognizing Washtenaw County’s digital divide and supporting our work to close the broadband access gap. In the hilly, tree-covered rural areas of the county; wireless is not an adequate solution. With accurate coverage data, the BBTF will be able to pursue grant funding to achieve a high-speed fiber optic network that will reach everyone.” 

You may find more information on the work of the Broadband Task Force at https://www.washtenaw.org/2867/Broadband-Task-Force.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.