Published: August 14, 2009 03:23 pm      

Texas Department of Agricultural announces results of initial broadband survey, seeks input from broadband funding applicants

AUSTIN — Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples announced today results of the Broadband Access Survey, which provides a preliminary glimpse of communities that do not currently have access to high-speed Internet service. The Texas Department of Agriculture surveyed local governments across the state to gather this data prior to the official mapping of the state for broadband availability. Entities interested in applying for the federal broadband funding programs may access the survey results on the agency’s Web site, www.TexasAgriculture.gov.

“In the late 1800s, electricity revolutionized America and reinvented our economy,” Commissioner Staples said. “Today broadband service has the same potential. For the Lone Star State to remain a global powerhouse of production we must ensure all Texans have access to high-speed Internet. By developing a strategic plan for broadband development, we will accomplish our goals of connecting all Texans.” 

The survey remains active, and local government officials may continue to submit their input. Survey results will be posted as new information is available.

In coordination with the Texas Broadband Task Force and Connected Nation, a non-profit corporation that facilitates public-private partnerships to increase access and use of broadband and related technology, TDA will utilize the results of the survey to develop priority corridors (or regions) where unserved or underserved Texans could benefit from the available $7.2 billion Congress has appropriated for broadband mapping and development projects.

The Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) includes a provision that allows states to review and recommend applications for projects in their jurisdictions. While applications will be submitted to the administering federal agency, applicants should make TDA aware of their intent to apply to the BTOP by e-mailing broadband@TexasAgriculture.gov by Aug. 18 to ensure the agency includes their applications in its strategy that will be presented to federal funding agencies.

For information about the Broadband Access Survey, visit the TDA Web site at www.TexasAgriculture.gov and click on Broadband for All Texans under Most Popular Links.