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Jones County reaches 85% of internet surveys targeted goal, more input needed to develop technology action plan

Local committee asks residents, public-private organizations to weigh in on internet access and speeds across Jones County



Jones County, Texas (April 12, 2021) – The Jones County Broadband Committee launched its work to develop a county Technology Action Plan just two weeks ago and is already seeing a huge response—signaling that area residents and businesses want and need better broadband (high-speed internet) access.


"The information collected in our community surveys will be used to inform how this Technology Action Plan comes together. It’s critical for every sector to be included so we get a real picture of the opportunities and challenges for Jones County,” said County Judge Dale Spurgin. “Right now, we’re seeing an incredible response overall, and we want that to continue. It’s important for us to highlight those sectors that need more data and input while we’re in this process so that those areas are not overlooked in that plan.”


The survey just takes about 10 minutes to complete and can be found here: https://www.myconnectedcommunity.org/jones-county/. Simply choose the appropriate section for your responses and follow the prompts.

Every resident, business, and community or government organization is encouraged to take the survey. The current response rate for the different areas of focus are as follows:  


  • Government – 63% complete
  • Health – 120% complete
  • Higher Education – 200% complete
  • K-12 Schools – 57% complete
  • Library and community organizations – 80% complete
  • Agriculture – 46% complete
  • Public safety – 33% complete


“It’s so telling that our sectors in health care and business organizations are responding at unexpected levels,” said Jamie Baker, Broadband Solutions Manager, Connected Nation Texas (CN Texas). “They understand what’s at stake in getting Jones County better connected. It impacts everything from our community’s access to health care options to business needs. But the benefits of better broadband don’t stop there. It also impacts job opportunities, the education of our children, our farmers and ranchers, the ability to connect with our government and public safety agencies, and access to resources that can improve every person and family’s quality of life.”


Jones County is among 27 communities selected to participate in a statewide effort led by CN Texas and funded by the Texas Rural Funders—at no cost to the county itself.   


Using data collected in the surveys, CN Texas will leverage its Connected Community Engagement Program to develop a Technology Action Plan that provides immediate and long-term steps for improving access, adoption, and use of broadband—including ways to help some of the most vulnerable populations in the county.


The Connected Program has been used more than 600 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.


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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 TRF 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://texasruralfunders.org/