Billions in broadband investment are on the way for New York State as Southern Tier officials are working quickly to help secure the region’s share of digital infrastructure funding.
Jen Gregory, Executive Director of the Southern Tier 8 Regional Board, which represents the Southern Tier’s eight easternmost counties, announced a collaboration with the New York State Broadband Office to develop accurate broadband maps to prioritize how the billions in federal and state funds will flow to communities.
Residents and businesses across the Southern Tier and throughout New York State can take the Empire State Broadband Assessment Survey by February 28, 2022. The state will use the findings to determine the steps necessary to provide better broadband access to unserved and underserved addresses in the Southern Tier and throughout the Empire State.
“Until now, many of us who have been working to connect the region have been relying on anecdotal evidence and inaccurate federal maps,” said Gregory. “This survey is critically important for the Southern Tier because we’ll be able to show state and federal officials with accuracy, that there are significant connectivity gaps in the Southern Tier and Central New York. These connectivity gaps must be addressed immediately so our region can remain economically competitive.”
Instructions to complete the survey and speed test can be found in English and Spanish at https://www.empirestatebroadband.com. Participants can also use their cell phone to complete the survey or call the toll-free number at 1-855-NYBBMAP (1-855-692-2627) and follow instructions to have a paper copy mailed to their home.
In November, Southern Tier 8 announced the formation of Project Connect, a multi-county, multi-year initiative to connect every home and business in Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Schoharie, Tioga, and Tompkins Counties to high-speed broadband. Residents of those counties are highly encouraged to participate in the survey.
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