Augusta County grades Internet service

Augusta County is seeking help from citizens to learn about where high speed internet improvements are needed.

Reliable high-speed internet access is important to keep pace with the world.  The need for faster and faster internet services increases each year with more and more use of streaming live video, posting of pictures and videos on social media and movement to paperless records for home and business.  Connectivity is essential for businesses, education, healthcare, emergency services, and the daily activities of residents.

Augusta County was fortunate to receive a Virginia Telecommunication Planning Initiative (VATPI) Grant to develop a plan that will lay the groundwork to improve and expand internet service in the area.  This grant is for a plan, not for implementation. This plan will build a bridge to the opportunity for future implementation.  It is anticipated that the plan will streamline the County’s goals and define the role the County is to play in furthering broadband initiatives.  The plan can assist in pursuing future grant opportunities, identifying areas for future deployment and telecommunications partners, and assist with planning for growth in the County.

County officials wish to obtain clarity in the need for affordable high-speed internet throughout the County.  Direct citizen input is crucial to the overall success of the plan.  As such, a survey has been developed to provide the information County officials need to move forward.

Citizens and businesses are encouraged to take the survey online at www.co.augusta.va.us. Paper surveys are available for pickup at the Augusta County Government Center and County libraries.  A kiosk to complete the survey online is also accessible at the Augusta County Government Center and Deerfield Fire Department.

The surveys will be collected through May 31, 2016.

County representatives are visiting local civic organizations throughout the County and holding public meetings in the Pastures District to present the project and receive citizens input as well.  Parents and business owners will be receiving a mailing to remind them to complete the survey also.