County committee on high-speed Internet access launches survey, plans to meet with providers
The new study committee appointed by the Rappahannock County Board of Supervisors to seek ways to bring high-speed Internet connections to more county homes and businesses has launched an on-line survey to find out how local residents access the Internet now.
The Broadband Initiative Committee held its first meeting Monday, Aug. 27, and agreed to set up a series of sessions with access providers such as telephone companies, cable concerns and wireless providers to explore the possibilities of bringing high-speed broadband connections to more households in Rappahannock, where many homes use slow, dial-up connections that limit Internet use.
One of the difficulties the committee faces is a lack of data on current Internet use in the county and the numbers of residents who may already have broadband connections. Thus, the study group has launched a web-based survey that asks Rappahannock County households to report on their current Internet connection.
The survey takes only a moment to respond to and does not ask for any private information such as names. To view the survey, click here (the web address is: http://www.skinsfan.us/InternetSurvey.) The form asks for your street address, zip code, and your Internet service provider, which is to be selected from a drop-down list. (Note: Do not use any abbreviations in your address; spell out words like Street and Road rather than St. or Rd., and do not add notes or comments.)
The incoming data will be compiled and mapped by the committee to provide a clearer picture of current Internet use and the availability of broadband access. Only Rappahannock County residents should reply to the survey.
In coming weeks, the study committee plans to interview Internet service providers such as Verizon, Sprint/Embarq, Virginia Broadband and others. The aim is to determine the possibilities for expanding broadband access and to explore new technologies. The group will consider whether any incentives for providers are necessary and prepare recommendations to the county.
The Broadband Initiative Committee includes two members of the Board of Supervisors–Eddie Wayland of Piedmont District and Roger Welch of Wakefield District. Its citizen members include Ray Stamps, Chris Payne, Mike Mahoney, Louise van Dort, and Jim Gannon. The group expects to complete its work before the end of the year.
-- James P. Gannon
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