Your input needed to develop a plan to improve internet access and speeds across DeWitt and Lavaca Counties
Joint effort is 15th community to take part in Connected Nation Texas’ statewide work to connect more Texans
DeWitt and Lavaca Counties, Texas (January 29, 2021) – The DeWitt and Lavaca Counties’ Joint Broadband Committee just launched work to develop a Technology Action Plan that will provide immediate and long-term solutions to improving internet access and speeds across both counties. The committee consisting of local stakeholders is in partnership with Connected Nation Texas (CN Texas) to develop the plan.
“We all have experienced the importance of having a better and more reliable internet connection during the pandemic. It’s emphasized the need for us to take action now to improve access for everyone across the two counties,” said Angie Cuellar, Ex. Director of Cuero Chamber of Commerce.
The DeWitt and Lavaca Counties are among 27 communities that are being selected to take part in a statewide effort led by CN Texas and funded by the Texas Rural Funders—at no cost to the counties or communities served.
“We are asking everyone to take part in a short survey so we can identify pain points as well as opportunities for improving broadband access, adoption, and use. Those who provide input will help shape this plan and ensure their communities are not overlooked,” said Egon Barthels, Lavaca County Emergency Management Coordinator.
As part of this effort, the Committee is asking every individual, business, and community organization to take 10 minutes and fill out a survey that corresponds with your county:
- DeWitt County survey
www.myconnectedcommunity.org/dewitt-county/ - Lavaca County survey
www.myconnectedcommunity.org/lavaca-county/
“As our area continues to grow at an astonishing rate, so also does the need for expanded access to high-speed internet. Expanded communication models will empower our economic and educational development,” said Bobby Seiferman, Director of Cuero Development Corporation.
“We want DeWitt and Lavaca Counties to be places where our residents thrive and this is one step closer to ensuring our communities are great places to live, work, and raise families,” concluded Sara Post Meyer, Mayor, City of Cuero.
The Technology Action Plan, which will be developed by leveraging Connected Nation’s Connected Community Engagement Program, will be shaped by the information provided by local stakeholders. The DeWitt and Lavaca Counties engagement represent the 15th to take part in this program since CN Texas was relaunched by Connected Nation statewide in late 2019.
The Connected Program has been used in nearly 400 communities across the country to develop county or regional-specific Technology Action Plans that have both short term and long-term broadband solutions.
For more information or if you have questions, email info@connectednation.org or head to connectednation.org/texas.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jessica Denson, Communications Director
Connected Nation
jdenson@connectdnation.org
(502) 341-2024
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About Connected Nation Texas: CN Texas is a local division of the national nonprofit Connected Nation. Our mission is to improve lives by providing innovative solutions that expand access to and increase the adoption and use of broadband (high-speed internet) and its related technologies for all people. Everyone belongs in a Connected Nation.
Connected Nation works with consumers, local community leaders, states, technology providers, and foundations to develop and implement technology expansion programs with core competencies centered on a mission to improve digital inclusion for people and places previously underserved or overlooked. For more information, please visit: connectednation.org and follow Connected Nation on Facebook and Twitter.
About the Texas Rural Funders: The mission of the Texas Rural Funders (TRF) is to partner with rural Texans to achieve their vision of prosperity and wellbeing. The group’s strategies recognize and are informed by rural expertise and assets. The TRFC leverages local, philanthropic, state and federal resources to collaborate on projects, support local capacity and leadership, share research, convene stakeholders and engage in advocacy. More information can be found on the TRF webpage at: https://www.edtx.org/get-involved/texas-rural-funders-collaborative.