Community action plan released for Lampasas and San Saba counties

Lampasas County and San Saba County, Texas (November 29, 2021) – A Technology Action Plan developed by Connected Nation Texas (CN Texas) has been presented to both Lampasas and San Saba counties following a broadband survey. Residents took part in a survey designed to determine the availability of internet infrastructure; how they are adopting and using broadband services; and what steps would have the greatest impact toward improving broadband access, adoption, and use across local community sectors. The feedback from residents, business owners, and community leaders played an integral role in the development of the Technology Action Plan.

Highlights from the survey include:

Lampasas County

• Residents indicate that, on average, their internet connection costs about $82.51 per month
• 92.7% of residents said they would like to have improved or additional options for home internet service
• For households that do not subscribe to home internet service, 20.8% said it was because “internet service is too expensive” while 50% said “internet service is not available at my address”

San Saba County

• Residents indicate that, on average, their internet connection costs about $85.40 per month
• 80% of residents said they would like to have improved or additional options for home internet service
• For households that do not subscribe to home internet service, 66.7% said it was because “internet service is too expensive” while 33.3% said “internet service is not available at my address”

“Broadband service today is more important than the interstate highway system. Those communities who have reliable broadband will thrive while those who do not will struggle. We are excited by the opportunities outlined in our partnership with CN. We are confident that they will move the region forward,” said Jim Reed, Executive Director, Central Texas Council of Governments (CTCOG).

This project is possible thanks to funding and support provided by the Texas Rural Funders, a philanthropic organization dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by rural communities.

The recommended broadband goals for both counties are to:

• Improve healthcare in Lampasas and San Saba counties by increasing telehealth services and expanding access to medical assistance
• Increase online engagement in Lampasas and San Saba counties through free digital literacy and communication workshops.
• Increase broadband availability and speeds in Lampasas and San Saba counties through strategic partnerships.

“At CN Texas, we look at broadband holistically, evaluating access, adoption, and use among residents, businesses, healthcare facilities, schools, and other community institutions,” said Sierra Sees, Broadband Solutions Manager, Connected Nation Texas. “Broadband is more than physical infrastructure, it’s how residents and community leaders alike leverage connectivity for community development and overall quality of life. Thanks to local data collected throughout the spring and summer, these communities better understand the internet needs and wants of residents and institutions.”

To date, the Connected Community Engagement Program has helped more than 650 communities with similar broadband challenges. CN Texas staff analyzed data and held meetings with community officials to determine specific community needs.

To view the full results of the Lampasas County broadband surveys, check out: www.connectednation.org/lampasas-county-texas

To view the full results of the San Saba County broadband surveys, check out: https://connectednation.org/san-saba-county-texas/

To learn more about the Connected Community Engagement Program, visit: https://connectednation.org/connect-my-community/

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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.

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/