Close digital divide for all of Iowa

By Krista Tanner

Last week, Connect Iowa launched a powerful new resource in its joint effort with the Iowa Utilities Board and the Broadband Deployment Governance Board to bring quality, high-speed Internet to Iowa.

Called BroadbandStat, the new app offers an interactive state map that puts all the latest information on high-speed Internet access directly at your fingertips. The cutting-edge map is just the first step in an aggressive plan to bring quality broadband service to everyone in Iowa.

Much like the revolutionary impact of harnessing electricity or the telephone, high-speed Internet connection is the new modern lifeline to quality jobs, information, and vital services like telemedicine, e-government and education.

In today's digital world, being connected to the Internet is critical to preserving and improving our way of life. Whether you live in a rural or urban area, broadband gives you the opportunity to work from home, take online classes, and market your products - all of which have a positive impact on the local economy. Yet, for thousands of Iowa residents, affordable access to high-speed Internet is still not available.

The Connect Iowa project is changing that. Its goal is to expand broadband access to areas where it doesn't exist and improve the quality of service in areas that are already served.

The newly completed Iowa state map shows what broadband services are available down to the street level. Connect Iowa, in collaboration with the state's broadband providers, will update the map on a routine basis to reflect “real-time” broadband availability. Policy makers, Internet providers, and the general public can use the maps to make informed decisions about broadband investment and expansion.

The map is accessible through the Connect

Iowa website, www.

connectiowa.org Public feedback is imperative to making sure the map is as accurate as possible. In addition, the website gives local residents a place to provide feedback on the initiative as well as several useful interactive tools.

People can find providers at their address, check their current Internet speeds, request broadband service in their area, and share stories of how high-speed Internet has impacted their lives.

All Iowa residents are encouraged to visit the Connect Iowa website, www.connectiowa.org, to join in this important initiative. By increasing broadband access and use across the state, Iowa is facing a bright future.

Krista Tanner is chairwoman of the Iowa Broadband Deployment Governance Board. Comments: info@connectiowa.org