Taking a simple internet speed test will identify areas of need
Access to broadband is vital for the economic health and growth of Wisconsin. Yet many homes and businesses have no broadband access or internet service speeds that fall below FCC standards.
State and federal grants are available to bring broadband to underserved areas around the state, but in order to tap into those grants, the state must identify those areas of greatest need.
The Lincoln County Board of Supervisors has formed a special interest committee of County Board Supervisors, IT and GIS professionals, and members of the public to gain a better understanding of broadband needs and the resources available for its development. They have partnered with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and surrounding counties and entities in order to expand broadband access throughout the region. The first step is rolling out a simple internet speed test for everyone in Lincoln County to take to establish where support is needed.
“Access to broadband will help Wisconsin attract companies and workers, and broadband is critical for those working or doing schoolwork from home or trying to access services online,” said Missy Hughes, WEDC Secretary and CEO. “But we can’t do this without the help of Wisconsinites statewide. We need as many of us as possible to take a very easy internet speed test.”
The test will help determine where internet speeds are below FCC standards and where the state needs to focus on building the broadband infrastructure.
To take the test, you simply need to visit the Lincoln County website (https://co.lincoln.wi.us) from your home or work location by June 15, 2022. It will only take a few moments and personal information is always protected and never shared.
Even those residents without internet access can help by logging onto the site from a friend’s home, the local library, or from their cell phone. Click on “Enter an address with No Available Service” to complete the survey.
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) leads economic development efforts for the state by advancing and maximizing opportunities in Wisconsin for businesses, communities, and people to thrive in a globally competitive environment. Working with more than 600 regional and local partners, WEDC develops and delivers solutions representative of a highly responsive and coordinated economic development network. Visit wedc.org or follow WEDC on Twitter @WEDCNews to learn more.