The county is launching a project called “AccessMerced,” which will create a broadband strategic plan by analyzing current available data and, more importantly, community survey responses.
Merced County stated community participation is a critical component in developing the strategic plan, according to a news release.
The community survey asks participants questions about their current internet service and what they’d like to see improved.
Residents verifying the actual services available at their home or in their community will help confirm or counter internet service provider information by creating a more accurate picture of internet coverage in Merced County.
The survey can be found at www.countyofmerced.com/accessmerced-survey.
The survey takes approximately five minutes to complete, and is available in English, Spanish, and Hmong.
This survey will be available until Dec. 18, 2022. Paper copies are available at the Merced County Administration Building, Merced City Hall, and all branches of the Merced County Library for those who may not have internet access.
“Broadband service is an essential component for continued economic growth of the region,” Merced County spokesperson Mike North said. “The completed strategic plan will include policy direction for broadband expansion and will provide information that supports enhancing public and private investment in broadband infrastructure.”
“Upon completion of the broadband strategic plan, the multi-jurisdictional consortium will begin working to identify funding options and potential partnerships to improve our broadband infrastructure, strengthening the economic competitiveness of the region,” North added.
© 2022 the Merced Sun-Star (Merced, Calif.). Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
