More than 480 surveys completed across Morris County provide key data points for new technology action plan
Morris County, Texas (September 13, 2021) – The Connected Nation Texas (CN Texas) Connected Program partnered with the Morris County Broadband Team to conduct a study designed to determine the availability of broadband infrastructure throughout the county. Between July 2020 and May 2021, the comprehensive survey of broadband technology access and adoption across the community collected responses from 481 households.
Key findings from the survey include:
- Almost one-third of the residents either use non-fixed internet connections such as dial-up, satellite, and mobile-only services or are not adopting broadband at all.
- For households that said they do not subscribe to home internet service, the top barrier is the cost of internet service followed by the lack of available service.
- Morris County households reported higher average reported monthly cost ($81.61) of service among households in the community compared to those in other Connected communities ($71.05).
“It has been such a pleasure working with Morris County on this important community initiative,” said Sierra Sees, Broadband Solutions Manager at Connected Nation Texas. “With survey data and a community action plan, Morris County is equipped with the necessary tools and resources to embark on new and exciting broadband initiatives.”
Morris County Judge Doug Reeder added, “On behalf of Morris County, I want to thank all residents, businesses owners, and community partners who took part in the broadband survey and community engagement. Thanks to your participation, Morris County has local data and a community action plan designed to help us bridge the digital divide. We are excited for the future of broadband in Morris County and know great things are ahead.”
CN Texas staff also met with community officials to determine community needs and to gather qualitative data for consideration in the study. Overall, the assessment was designed to identify issues and opportunities to close the local Digital Divide.
Recommendations have been made for improving broadband access and adoption in Morris County:
- Identify a single point of contact to organize and lead all broadband initiatives in Morris County
- Increase Digital Engagement in Morris County through free and reduced cost services
- Improve long-term quality of life for Morris County residents through broadband internet offerings
To view the results of the Morris County broadband surveys, visit: https://connectednation.org/morris-county-texas/
This engagement is one of many supported and funded by the Texas Rural Funders across the State of Texas.
To learn more about the Connected Community Engagement Program, head to this webpage: https://connectednation.org/connect-my-community/
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jessica Denson, Communications Director
Connected Nation
jdenson@connectednation.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.
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