Eaton County Broadband Communication Council launches work to improve countywide internet access, speeds
Eaton County, Michigan (September 1, 2021) – The Eaton County Broadband Communication Council just launched a new effort to expand and improve high-speed internet access across Eaton County. A kickoff summit was held today in the Board of Commissioners Room at the Eaton County Courthouse, with attendees representing a wide range of local government, economic development, business, education, and other public organizations.
“Macro and micro changes to our economy and educational changes emphasize the importance connecting our communities has on our ability to succeed in today’s world,” said Jeremy Whittum, Chairman, Eaton County Board of Commissioners. “Eaton County is motivated to begin a transformational endeavor with our public- and private-sector partners to achieve our ultimate goal of ensuring high-speed and reliable internet access for all.”
The project is being done in partnership with Connected Nation Michigan (CN Michigan), leveraging the nonprofit’s Connected Community Engagement Program, also referred to as Connected. The program has been used in more than 650 communities. It analyzes data collected from local residents, businesses and other stakeholders to develop community-specific Technology Action Plans.
You can share your current connectivity situation as input for Eaton County’s resulting action plan by taking a 10-minute survey before October 15 at: https://myconnectedcommunity.org/eaton-county. For those without internet access or who prefer to take the survey in printed form, you can pick up a copy of the Eaton County Broadband Survey at your local township or village office, your local library, or at the Eaton County Courthouse building.
“This project provides an opportunity for every resident, business, and community organization to weigh in about internet connectivity in their part of the county and to help us shape a truly responsive technology action plan,” said Commissioner Wayne Ridge, Board of Commissioners, Information Technology and Communication Committee Chairman. “This plan will help inform our next steps as we work to both improve internet speeds and expand access. There’s no question that ensuring everyone has access to the resources the internet provides is critical to the growth and long-term vitality of our wonderful communities in Eaton County, so I encourage everyone to take part in these surveys.”
To learn more about the Connected Community Engagement Program, visit: 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 Michigan: CN Michigan is a local division of the national nonprofit Connected Nation, which is marking 20 years of service in 2021. Connected Nation’s 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.