Jones County Broadband Committee seeks input to improve internet access and speeds across the county
Jones County, TX. (March 23, 2021) – The Jones County Broadband Committee just launched a new initiative to help expand and improve high-speed internet access for residents, businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and community organizations across the county.
“Now, more than ever, we have seen how important it is for everyone to stay connected to broadband (high-speed internet),” said Dr. Cassidy McBrayer, Superintendent, Hawley Independent School District. “It is especially important for students to stay connected to teachers and the classroom. Quality broadband access is critical for student success.”
Jones County is one of many communities selected as part of a statewide effort led by Connected Nation Texas (CN Texas) and funded by the Texas Rural Funders—at no cost to the county. As part of this effort, the committee is asking every individual, business, and community organization to take 10 minutes and fill out this short survey: https://www.myconnectedcommunity.org/jones-county/
“Jones County’s history contains stories of how communities survived and developed because of decisions about the routes where the railroads were built. Broadband internet service is the next infrastructure that will determine once again which communities develop and thrive in the future,” said County Judge Dale Spurgin. “We will soon ask our fellow citizens and businesses to join us in this project and encourage everyone to respond to the “All Aboard” invitation to participate."
"Broadband internet is the modern-day railroad. It is a necessity for economic relevance and connectivity to the rest of the world,” said Mayor of Stamford, James M. Decker. “If Jones County and its communities are to survive and thrive into the future, our citizens must have affordable and accessible broadband internet."
The Technology Action Plan, which will be developed by leveraging Connected Nation’s Connected Community Engagement Program, willbe 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 offer both short-term and long-term broadband solutions.
For more information or if you have questions, email info@connectednation.orgor head to connectednation.org/texas.
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Media Contact:
Jessica Denson, Communications Director
Connected Nation
jdenson@connectednation.org
502-341-2024
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.