GRADD Participating in Broadband Survey

The Office of Broadband Outreach and Development (OBOD) and the Kentucky Council of Area Development Districts (KCADD) is launching a new survey as part of the Broadband KY initiative to obtain direct input from the public about broadband access and use across the commonwealth.

About the Survey

The survey is part of a rigorous broadband mapping and planning project for Kentucky that will provide comprehensive, current, and accurate information on how Kentuckians use broadband. Surveys will be accepted during a 4-week window from February 8th through March 7th.

“This is a unique opportunity for the citizens of Kentucky to tell us about the obstacles they face in using broadband. We want Kentuckians online and globally engaged, and this program has been built to do that,” Brian Kiser, executive director of the Commonwealth Office of Broadband Outreach and Development, said.

Where to Find the Survey

Surveys will be solicited via email, but can be taken by any Kentucky citizen using specified URL addresses or paper surveys. More than 100,000 businesses, non-profits, health organizations, local governments, and households in Kentucky will receive email messages this week asking them to participate in the survey.
In addition to email invitations to take the survey, business, organizations, and individuals can participate by visiting www.broadband.ky.gov<http://www.broadband.ky.gov>..

Why Participation is Needed

This project has three main goals:

1)     Gain an understanding of the availability of broadband and the usage of broadband across Kentucky (i.e. who is using broadband and how they are using it in their daily activities).

2)     Identify opportunities for growth in broadband availability and use.

3)     Develop strategies for targeting growth in un/underserved areas and in areas where populations are not taking advantage of broadband tools to facilitate personal and economic growth.

“Internet access levels the playing field for rural citizens and their communities,” noted GRADD executive director Jiten Shah. “We need Kentuckians to make their voices heard, so that we can begin deconstructing barriers and working to promote a healthier and more vibrant commonwealth.”

Governor Beshear established the Commonwealth Office of Broadband Outreach & Development in October of 2010. This Office continues work to identify areas un-served and under-served, by affordable broadband, throughout the state, and to facilitate greater understanding and partnerships which work toward providing all Kentuckians with these critical capabilities into the future.

The Kentucky Council of Area Development Districts is comprised of 15 regional entities that provide a multi-disciplinary approach to regional trouble-shooting by working with elected leadership to strengthen the physical environment and enhance the quality of life in Kentucky. Under the Council’s leadership, the ADDs have managed over 5,763 projects and contracts valued at $2.8 billion, and have generated a return of more than $100 for every $1 in local government dues each year. Among those are programs to assist the elderly, improve the state’s infrastructure, provide housing assistance, facilitate economic development, develop a strong workforce, improve water and wastewater practices, and advance public health.