FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Oct. 25, 2021
Wayne County lawmakers say taking these steps could boost internet speeds
New Indiana Connectivity Program aims to help rural Hoosiers
STATEHOUSE (Oct. 25, 2021) – State Reps. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond) and Tom Saunders (R-Lewisville) encourage local residents and businesses with slow or no broadband internet service to apply for help using the newly launched Indiana Connectivity Program.
Barrett said the program will spread high-speed broadband to unserved and underserved Hoosiers. Those without a quality internet connection can report their address and information using the Next Level Connections portal at in.gov/ocra/broadband/icp or by calling the Indiana Broadband Connect Center during business days from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (ET) at 833-639-8522.
"Rural Hoosiers are very familiar with having internet connection issues and it puts us at a disadvantage whether your simply accessing information or running a business," said Barrett, chair of the House Public Health Committee. "Telehealth also continues to grow in popularity and we saw a huge increase in demand through the pandemic. Improving access to quality internet can go a long way in connecting more Hoosiers, supporting the economy and improving public health."
Saunders said the program will connect qualifying residents and businesses with broadband in their area and also help providers by assisting in the expense of extending service to those locations. To be eligible for assistance, a location must experience speeds of less than 25 Mbps (download) and 3 Mbps (upload).
"Providing high-speed internet to rural communities can help local small businesses, in the classroom and at home," Saunders said. "Ensuring underserved Hoosiers have access to reliable broadband service is something our state will continue to work toward."
Internet providers will review service requests and submit bids to the state to extend broadband to those eligible areas. Saunders said the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs will evaluate bids and award funding. Funded projects must be completed in nine months. Hoosiers should know that submitting their location to the state does not guarantee service will be extended.
"The Indiana Connectivity Program will aid unserved and underserved Hoosiers in getting better access to reliable, high-speed broadband internet service," said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch. "This program would not be possible without the diligent efforts of the General Assembly and the law the legislature passed earlier this year that creates this new tool to connect Hoosiers. I am grateful for our state’s continued commitment to expanding broadband to all corners of Indiana."
Hoosiers can visit in.gov/ocra/broadband/icp for more information about the program and to apply for assistance.
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State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond) represents House District 56,
which includes portions of Wayne County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Tom Saunders (R-Lewisville) represents House District 54,
which includes Henry County and portions of Rush and Wayne counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo
