The State of Ohio and Buckeye Hills Regional Council are working to make sure every Ohioan has access to high-speed internet and is asking for your help.
BroadbandOhio wants to improve newly released federal maps showing internet availability and speed in Ohio. From now through January 13, 2023, you can help provide crucial feedback to the federal government that will ensure Ohio receives as much support as possible to expand high-speed internet.
“The upcoming Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program presents us with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ensure broadband connection to our residents,” said BHRC Broadband Coordinator Ryan Collins. “That is why we must make sure that the program’s unprecedented $42.45 billion dollars are allocated properly and spent wisely. For the first time ever, residents can help make sure that this happens. The funding amounts and eligible households will be determined using the new FCC Broadband Fabric Maps. While these maps are more accurate than ever in terms of locations, preliminary data shows that service levels may be overstated. This is where our residents come in. Individuals can challenge the maps by following the steps outlined by BroadbandOhio.”
You can help spread the word in your community and throughout the state in multiple ways:
- Check the reported availability of internet at your home address by going to broadbandmap.fcc.gov. If the provider information should be updated, the website allows you to submit a challenge to dispute the information presented. If you need a step-by-step guide, you can find an informational video HERE. Please complete this step by January 13, 2023.
- Share this message with your friends and family. If they do not have high-speed internet available at their homes, help them complete Step 1.
- Share the graphic below on your social media accounts.
- Share this opportunity the next time you attend a community event (for example, your place of worship, community meetings, or town halls).
Note: If you, or anyone you know, needs help reviewing the Ohio information on the federal map or submitting a challenge against the reporting, you can follow this step-by-step guide at this YouTube link. If you need help or aren’t finding your location on the map you may also reach out to your local library branch or contact BHRC Broadband Coordinator Ryan Collins at rcollins@buckeyehills.org or 740-336-2042
Note: Within 60 days of submitting a challenge, an Internet Provider may reach out to you by phone or email to gather additional information about your internet situation. For answers to any questions, contact broadbandohio@development.ohio.gov.