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Connect Arkansas, a private, non-profit, is implementing a community-based initiative that will link all Arkansans, especially in rural areas, to the internet. The Connect Arkansas Broadband Act was signed into law by Governor Beebe on March 28, 2007, to ensure the creation of a competitive broadband, or high speed internet, infrastructure that will not only improve personal lives, but also the economic capabilities and of all Arkansans.
In economic development, education, and healthcare, broadband is a key strategic component.
Broadband in Arkansas. According to the 2008 State New Economy Index, which ranks states based on their ability to compete in the new economy, Arkansas ranks 47th in the nation. Arkansas also ranks 49th in deployment of broadband telecommunications.
In a recent survey of 608 registered Arkansas voters, 29% of the population have “never used the internet,” while another 7% were unsure of what broadband, or high speed internet access, meant. Even if broadband was affordable and was made available to every household in Arkansas, 30% of the population would not subscribe to the service. With regards to internet access, 51% do not have broadband service.
Capitol Recap: Broadband in Arkansas
http://www.talkbusiness.net/playvideo.aspx?document=395
Our Focus. To facilitate statewide broadband access, Connect Arkansas will focus on three major components:
> Determination of existing broadband infrastructure in Arkansas.
An important step in facilitating access is to create an understanding of local needs. By mapping the state’s existing broadband infrastructure, Connect Arkansas will provide a level of detail that is currently not available in Arkansas. These maps will show where access is available, and more importantly, where access is not available. With this information, broadband providers can strategically optimize their network deployment plans and communities can further their Information Technology (IT) planning initiatives.
> Education.
Connect Arkansas will work with community leaders to develop a strategic plan for IT deployment, while working with local communities to provide public internet access and computer training.
> Equipment and Access.
Through the Breaking Boundaries with Broadband Program, Connect Arkansas will work with existing community programs and create programs as needed to promote increased internet use and ownership of computer devices.
Creating Impact. At the Community Level.
The work of Connect Arkansas helps to build stronger communities. Through the creation of a competitive, local telecommunications infrastructure, communities will be able to sustain high-value jobs and provide a greater quality of life.
For the State
According to the CSE Freedom Foundation, full broadband deployment in Arkansas will create 8,200 new jobs and bring in over $2.6 billion annually in additional Gross State Product (GSP).
