Jasper County releases Broadband Feasibility Study to enhance community connectivity
Jasper County Commissioners are pleaded to announce the completion of the Jasper County Broadband Feasibility Study, the first step in the County’s plan to significantly improve internet connectivity across the County.
The primary purpose of this study was to identify homes and businesses without sufficient internet connectivity, and therefore understand which areas may be eligible for federal broadband grant funding, while also quantifying the costs to implement a broadband solution in Jasper County. The comprehensive study is now available for public review.
Key Highlights of the Feasibility Study
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- There is a major discrepancy between the number of unserved potential broadband customers according to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) data and the Study’s on-the-ground research.
The FCC reports 444 potential broadband customers are unserved yet the Study found that 5,702 homes and businesses have speeds less than 25/3 mbps across Jasper county highlighting that connectivity issues are more extensive than what the FCC officially recognized. - There is County-wide dissatisfaction with current broadband options.
The Study shows 38% dissatisfied with current speeds; 51% unhappy with reliability and 54% unhappy with the cost of their internet connectivity. - The Study highlights a significant problem with broadband adequacy for remote work and education.
A considerable percentage of the County’s population, including 40% of households with students, report that their current broadband service is not sufficient to support homework. This statistic underscores the urgency for improved broadband services to support essential activities like remote work and online learning.
- There is a major discrepancy between the number of unserved potential broadband customers according to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) data and the Study’s on-the-ground research.
The full Broadband Study is available at jaspercountymo.gov.
We invite you to explore the findings and join us in shaping the future of broadband in Jasper County. The County Commissioners welcome your feedback to the Study, which can be emailed to tbenford@jaspercountymo.gov.