Five counties lag behind in broadband survey responses

AUGUSTA — Mainers have responded to the Maine Connectivity Authority’s broadband survey by the thousands, but five counties are lagging behind: Androscoggin, Franklin, Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Sagadahoc.

“The response so far has been strong,” said Andrew Butcher, president of the Maine Connectivity Authority. “We’ve received more than 2,000 survey responses. But we need to hear from all parts of the state. The surveys are an important part of setting state priorities for broadband expansion, and we don’t want any towns or counties to be left out. We want to hear from you.”

As part of its comprehensive Broadband Action Plan outreach process, the Maine Connectivity Authority has launched a survey open to everyone ages 18 and older in Maine. The survey can be completed at maineconnectivity.org/survey.

To date, the mid-coast region is leading in survey responses with strong numbers in Washington, Waldo, Oxford and Cumberland counties, as well. The survey will be available through April 14.

Maine Connectivity Authority particularly wants to hear from people who face barriers connecting to the internet because the plan will directly address those challenges. Everyone is encouraged to share the survey with people in their lives who they know are not able to get online regularly.

Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act and the American Rescue Plan, Maine is expected to receive at least $250 million to expand access to high-speed, reliable and affordable internet in Maine. It’s the largest public investment in broadband in history.

“Mainers have a chance to weigh in with this survey and to help inform our roadmap for a future of better internet and digital equity,” Butcher said.

Those who do not have access to the internet should call 207-200-4398 to receive a copy of the survey in the mail. Twelve translations of the survey are available online, and translated print versions can be shared upon request. To learn more about the Broadband Action Plan process and other ways to take part, please visit maineconnectivity.org/planning.

The Maine Connectivity Authority was created in 2021 to expand access to fast, reliable and affordable internet to the people and places who need it and to break down the barriers that keep Mainers from taking full advantage of those connections.