Milam County is well on its way to having enough surveys for ConnectedNation-Texas to begin its tabulation and analysis to access the county’s needs for improved internet service, according to the group.
In the fall of last year, the county agreed to compile surveys from residents and businesses to gather information that would allow ConnectedNation-Texas to access where the county stands on its internet access and speed needs.
“As of Jan. 31, 2021, Milam County is at 98% of the minimum target with many of the segments well over 200% of goal, but don’t let up as each additional response is significant. We would like at least 50 more residential household respondents,” said Stu Johnson, a community technology adviser with ConnectedNation. “Our research department will not initiate tabulation and analysis until the response window is closed. This project is truly inspiring and clearly demonstrates the passion of Milam County leadership and citizens to get involved to help improve the quality of life for all.”
Johnson pointed out the need for the specific data that the surveys will uncover.
“While there are numerous forms of public assistance that provide financial incentives for broadband deployment to communities most in need, they are evaluated and targeted by data that is often flawed which can result in unserved areas being overlooked and/or investment in areas that don’t need it,” he said.
“Acquiring information door to door is messy and expensive, but the best way to gauge individual experience,” he said. “Thankfully, Texas Rural Funders has generously provided ConnectedNation and Milam County the resources required to get this accomplished.
“For one example, through the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund, providers have committed to nearly $2.5 million in funding to build out broadband in Milam County over the next 10 years,” he said.
“This effort will allow the voices of Milam County households, businesses, farms, schools, public safety, government, etc., to be heard,” he noted.
When completed, probably in April, the final report will include a list of short and longer term action plans that the community will be able to prioritize and execute, according to Johnson.
“Furthermore, this data will have a long shelf life and be vital information to include in any future grant applications,” he said. The surveys can be found
The surveys can be found at https://www.myconnectedcommunity.org/milam-county. At that site you can choose which survey to fill out from the nine listed.
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