Broadband Action Plan (BAP!)
Introduction
The lack of fast, reliable, and affordable broadband is a major problem in rural, suburban, and even urban America. Issues of digital inclusion and accessibility have exacerbated the digital divide, leaving millions of Americans unable to use technology to improve their lives.
Faced with the opportunity for unprecedented funding, Maine Connectivity Authority, in coordination with stakeholders around the state, is facilitating the development of a Broadband Action Plan (BAP!) that is rooted in digital equity. This plan will identify priorities for investment in broadband and digital equity, and will serve as the state’s five-year road map to bring the economic, health, educational, and social benefits of high-speed internet to all Mainers.
Through the BAP process, we strive to understand the challenges and opportunities facing stakeholders from every corner of the state so we can develop effective solutions.
Key Dates
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February 1 - May 1, 2023
Stakeholder Engagement
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June 1, 2023
Draft Plan Presented for Public Comment
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August 1, 2023
BAP Submitted to Federal Government
MCA Contacts
Tanya Emery
Economic Development Director
temery@maineconnectivity.org (207) 200-4770
Maggie Drummond-Bahl
Strategic Partnership Director
mbahl@maineconnectivity.org (207) 838-8658
Broadband Action Plan Contact Information
(207) 200-4398
Digital Equity in the Planning Process
Digital equity is the condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity for full participation in our society and economy. Maine has opted to combine our digital equity and infrastructure planning, so digital equity will be woven throughout the plan and will also result in a separate stand alone digital equity plan for the state for the first time. The digital equity components of the BAP will be guided by the Digital Equity Taskforce and supported by the Regional and Tribal Broadband Partners.
Additional Engagement Opportunities
As part of this integrated planning process, MCA will be conducting extensive engagement, including focus groups, community meetings, open office hours, and more. We will crisscross the state to hear and learn how access to broadband will improve the quality of life for all Mainers, and how best to deliver the right infrastructure and services. If you would like to take part in any of these activities, please register using a link in the calendar below, or email us at bap@maineconnectivity.org.
Take the Maine Broadband Survey
How can better internet access help grow economic opportunities in your community? What would your life look like with a reliable, fast, and affordable broadband connection?
Share your priorities with us now, so your needs are represented in the Broadband Action Plan!
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Please share this survey with your friends, family, and communities, and ask them to share their broadband priorities.
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MCA has developed 12 translations of the survey and they are available here.
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You can help people complete the survey by using it as an individual interview tool: ask them the questions and enter the survey responses for them.
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MCA is also happy to supply hard copies of the survey. You can download a PDF version here, or email us if you would like us to mail you a copy, and then return it to your regional partner or to MCA directly.
