Internet access is essential. Especially after the rise of online options for work and school over the last few years, access to stable and affordable internet service is a crucial part of life in this country. That’s why CCJ encourages efforts to expand internet connectivity in areas like Washington and Greene Counties.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Broadband Map is a crucial tool for implementing new projects involving internet services. The map provides information about the internet services that are available at individual locations nationwide, and is used to help identify unserved and underserved communities that are in need of high-speed internet infrastructure. Without accurate data, the communities most in need of high-speed internet access may continue to be overlooked and underserved. Unfortunately, however, the map that was recently released contains a number of significant inaccuracies in the southwest corner of the state. According to the map, Washington and Greene counties have 100% coverage of both broadband and mobile internet services. We know this is not correct, because we live here and experience issues with the lack of service in certain areas.
The FCC and CCJ are encouraging residents to check the broadband map for inaccuracies and if necessary, submit challenges to fix them so that no one is left out when the broadband expansion plans happen in your community. You can submit challenges through the online map until January 13, 2023. You can find more information on how to use the map and to submit challenges below.
Instructions:
- Visit The National Broadband Map and enter the address you want to check. For help using the map, click here: How to Use the FCC’s National Broadband Map
- Look at the information provided and check to see if the information is correct. Make sure your property location and type is labeled correctly. Then, make sure that the fixed and wireless broadband providers are correct to the best of your knowledge.
- If the location address or type of building listed is incorrect, select ‘Location Challenge’ and fill out the form. Formore information, click here: How to Submit a Location Challenge.
- If theprovider, number of providers, or type of broadband access is incorrect, select ‘Availability Challenge’ and fill out the form. For more information and a full list of acceptable options for a challenge, click here: How to Submit an Availability Challenge.
- After you’re finished, reach out to a family member, friend or colleague to ask them to check the map for their property. The more people review it, the more accurate this map will be for lawmakers to use, and the better they can direct funding for the expansion of these services!
If you have additional questions about how to use the map or to submit a challenge, please reach out to our Field Coordinator Paul Fedore at 724-229-3550 ext. 8.
