Community members across Northwest Ohio have the opportunity to participate in a survey to assess broadband and technology needs. The survey, which can be accessed HERE, has a deadline of June 30.
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 allocated $65 billion for broadband expansion nationally. The State of Ohio created a sub-office of the Ohio Department of Development to implement the expansion of the internet and access to technological resources. This office was established as BroadbandOhio (BBOH; https://broadband.ohio.gov/home)
Earlier this year, BBOH allocated five grants for Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, Southeast, and Central Ohio.The grants entail conducting surveys and community listening sessions in a 22-county footprint. Collected data will be used to capture the internet/technology needs and help guide BBOH on how to/where to make future investments.
It is estimated that Ohio will receive $500 million to $1 billion for, predominately, broadband infrastructure development, as well as funding for strategies that assist in digital skill-building and creating greater access to technology resources.
The survey is available in both English and Spanish.
