Input needed to develop a plan to improve internet access and speeds across Shackelford and Throckmorton counties

Shackelford and Throckmorton Counties, TX. (March 11, 2021) – The Shackelford and Throckmorton Counties Broadband Committee has launched work to develop a Technology Action Plan that will provide immediate and long-term solutions to improve 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.

Shackelford and Throckmorton counties are among several 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.  

“This past year has demonstrated that reliable and affordable broadband is a necessity for our schools, businesses, and local government. We need to start planning now to provide that service countywide,” said Shackelford County Judge Bob Skelton.

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: 

• Shackelford County survey
  www.myconnectedcommunity.org/shackelford-county/ 
• Throckmorton County survey
  www.myconnectedcommunity.org/throckmorton-county/ 

"Our world is changing and the quality and quantity of communication and connection that we have available is vital to sustain our rural communities,” said Throckmorton Mayor, Will Carroll. “The City of Throckmorton, and all rural communities, rely on stable and reliable internet to provide healthcare, education, jobs and quality of life for our citizens. Connected Nation Texas offers an opportunity for us to be all that we can be in this technological advancing time."

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 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.orgor head toconnectednation.org/texas

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jessica Denson, Communications Director
Connected Nation

###

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.