Broadband agency hits the road to map Maine’s digital future

​

The Maine Connectivity Authority began a driving tour last week to get input on its strategy to improve internet service to homes and businesses that struggle with unreliable connections.

From his 1984 Volkswagen van named Buttercup, Andrew Butcher, the public agency’s president, began the tour July 7 and will go through July 24 to document connections across the state. It’s the authority’s second such tour.

The information will inform Connectivity 2030, a strategy to guide how the internet translates into opportunity across Maine.

“In the last four years, hundreds of communities, businesses, nonprofits and institutions have made unprecedented progress in bridging the digital divide,” said Butcher. “But the work isn’t done. The road to an updated vision for connectivity depends on a diverse array of input from all people all around the state.”

Successes and barriers
Established in 2021, the authority is Maine’s public agency charged with achieving universal access to reliable, affordable high-speed internet service statewide.

Since then, high-speed, reliable connectivity to homes and businesses in Maine has increased by 2.6 times, meaning that approximately 120,000 Maine businesses and homes now have a reliable connection.

But many people still face barriers to meaningful participation online.

Earlier this year, the authority received $48.4 million in federal funding to improve internet service to homes and businesses that struggle with unreliable connections, which Butcher said will provide approximately 22,000 homes and businesses with modern internet access. But more funding is needed, he said.

“Barriers to connectivity include affordability of internet service and devices, limited digital skills, lack of technical support and concerns about online safety,” he said. “This impacts individuals’ ability to access opportunities provided by the internet, including telehealth, continued education, remote work opportunities, workforce training and civic participation.”

Beyond the tour, MCA is gathering statewide input through a public survey, engagement events, partner coordination and data analysis to shape policy and funding strategies. The survey will remain open through July and has received over 350 responses so far.