Internet customers who are termed as “underserved” attended a recent forum during which they had hoped to gain answers to their concerns.
Addressing the forum, hosted by the Clarion County Economic Development Corporation at the Clarion County Sorce Building, were three experts in broadband development.
“Underserved” is defined by the Federal Communications Corp. as a situation in which internet services meet or exceed the FCC threshold but without access to speeds of 100 Mbps (megabytes per second) download and 20 Mbps upload.
The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority is crafting a plan using federal money to help develop plans to address broadband service needs in both unserved and underserved communities.
“The plans will help ensure everyone has the skills, technology, and capacity needed to benefit from our digital economy,” according to the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority.
According to Pam Frontino, grants manager with the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority, the input received from a survey of those attending the meeting will provide information about the state’s work to develop an action plan to ensure equitable, affordable broadband access for all residents, businesses and communities.
Kroh said the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is the equivalent of the Rural Electrification Act, which brought electricity to rural America in the 1930s.
Frontino said federal money is involved and that means changes won’t happen overnight. She said it is possible for building to begin in mid-2024.
Jarred Heuer, CCEDC executive director, said, “A key piece to successfully connect Clarion County is collaboration with our regional and state partners; so we are glad to partner with the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority and host this conversation.”
Kroh said the plan is to close the digital divide. “The plan is take this to the last mile, the end user” and that the providers would not be able to overcharge for the service.
Frontino said the county could be a key driver in the application process. “We are learning by the applications we receive. There will be ample opportunity for public comment in the future.”
Comments regarding broadband development may be sent to the CCEDC.