Massachusetts wins $2 million in federal stimulus funding for statewide broadband data development and mapping
On November 6, 2009 Governor Deval Patrick announced that Massachusetts has won approximately $2 million in federal stimulus funding to aid in the development of affordable, reliable broadband Internet services for all communities in the Commonwealth.
The funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) for the collection and mapping of broadband availability and infrastructure information will lead to the creation of a comprehensive, statewide database of broadband availability and an updated state map of broadband coverage. This project will help the state prepare for additional federal funding to build new broadband infrastructure that will bring high-speed Internet, or broadband, access to tens of thousands of households, businesses and community anchor institutions throughout the Commonwealth – including the unserved and underserved communities of western Massachusetts and the Cape. Read the complete release>>
Project specifics:
The Massachusetts Broadband Mapping Project will create and maintain a complete, accurate, functional, and accessible mapping of broadband availability at the census block and street level for the entire state. The Mapping Project will accomplish these goals by:
- Developing collaborative relationships and data sharing agreements with broadband providers to develop a broadband availability database;
- Validating and enhancing the provider database through the analysis of cable strand maps, DSL-equipped central office and remote terminal locations and wireless tower locations and various modeling methods based on the transport technology;
- Verifying broadband availability in the field through a grassroots, civic engagement component using industry experts, partner organizations, and public participation and;
- Making the data easily accessible and useable through an innovative web-based map library, data repository, and searchable broadband map.
The Massachusetts Broadband Planning Project, in partnership with WesternMA Connect and regional planning agencies, will identify barriers and assets to the deployment of broadband infrastructure and broadband adoption and then develop and implement innovative solutions to overcome barriers and best utilize assets, including:
- Developing and supporting Local Technology Planning Teams and organizing outreach efforts to engage, inform, and energize residents, businesses, and public officials;
- Supporting municipalities in making educated decisions on broadband issues impacting their communities, including technology, siting locations, zoning, and permitting;
- Improving access to broadband and increasing adoption rates by providing technical assistance, support and coordination to the public, community anchor institutions, municipalities, and providers and;
- Facilitating the development of public computing centers, training programs, and other efforts to improve broadband access and adoption.