Somerset County is committed to closing the digital divide and has taken steps to evaluate the availability and quality of broadband internet within the County. The Connect Somerset County Data Collection Report & Feasibility Study is a critical step in documenting the current state of broadband, identifying unserved and underserved areas, determining possible expansion areas, and strategically pursuing funding and partnership opportunities.
About the Study
Your Somerset County Commissioners heard from you!
In September 2023, the Somerset County Commissioners launched a comprehensive study of the County’s internet infrastructure with the goal of broadband expansion. Residents were asked to complete a brief seven-minute online survey and speed test to help the Commissioners gain a more complete understanding of the County’s strengths and weaknesses.
The results of this study provide critical data in creating a roadmap that aims to secure state and federal funding opportunities. It will also help inform County officials about how best to deploy funds to improve the quality, availability, and adoption of high-speed internet.
What is Broadband?
Broadband, or high-speed internet, allows users to access the internet at speeds significantly greater than those offered through traditional “dial-up” connections. Most importantly, broadband internet is “always on,” meaning it’s available –– and reliable –– whenever you need it. Streaming, videoconferencing, cloud services, and modern public safety are all examples of content that relies on high-speed broadband connections. High-speed broadband results in faster, more reliable services, while internet access through aging infrastructure such as copper, results in slower, less reliable internet service.
Unserved
Underserved
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Why High-Speed Internet is Important For Somerset County Residents
The internet is no longer a luxury. It has become a critical part of our everyday life.
Broadband needs extend beyond home and business into the areas of public safety, transportation, energy monitoring technology and more. It’s simple- modern society requires access to modern high-speed internet connections.
A traditional connection, and certainly no connection, is no longer enough to take advantage of and participate in this digital age. Broadband is needed now and into the future if Somerset County’s citizens are to continue to thrive.
- Provides residents the opportunity to connect with friends and family
- Enables both adults and children to complete course work and obtain diplomas and higher education degrees.
- Gives everyone an equal opportunity to seek employment or conduct business remotely
- Allows residents in the entire county to meet with a telehealth specialist to obtain care
From Your Commissioners
Irv Kimmel Jr
Somerset County Commissioner
“Reliable broadband internet opens doors, especially for those in rural communities. Without it, residents simply don’t have the same opportunities in the modern economy, education system, or healthcare system. The pandemic illuminated the impact of this digital divide, and we’re taking steps now to remedy that situation.”
Irv Kimmel Jr
Somerset County Commissioner
“Reliable broadband internet opens doors, especially for those in rural communities. Without it, residents simply don’t have the same opportunities in the modern economy, education system, or healthcare system. The pandemic illuminated the impact of this digital divide, and we’re taking steps now to remedy that situation.”
Brian Fochtman
Somerset County Commissioner
“This study will provide us with an in-depth look at what areas of the County lack broadband internet access. With this knowledge, Somerset County will be best positioned to advocate for our residents, apply for funding opportunities, and conduct productive conversations with internet service providers looking to invest in our County.”
Pamela Tokar-Ickes
Somerset County Commissioner
“This internet survey and speed test will help develop our strategy. as we look to make investments in local broadband infrastructure,” said Somerset County Commissioner Pamela Tokar-Ickes. “We’re encouraging every resident and local business owner or manager to take this survey from their residence or business to ensure their internet challenges are heard.”
Irv Kimmel Jr
Somerset County Commissioner
“Reliable broadband internet opens doors, especially for those in rural communities. Without it, residents simply don’t have the same opportunities in the modern economy, education system, or healthcare system. The pandemic illuminated the impact of this digital divide, and we’re taking steps now to remedy that situation.”
Brian Fochtman
Somerset County Commissioner
“This study will provide us with an in-depth look at what areas of the County lack broadband internet access. With this knowledge, Somerset County will be best positioned to advocate for our residents, apply for funding opportunities, and conduct productive conversations with internet service providers looking to invest in our County.”
Pamela Tokar-Ickes
Somerset County Commissioner
“This internet survey and speed test will help develop our strategy. as we look to make investments in local broadband infrastructure,” said Somerset County Commissioner Pamela Tokar-Ickes. “We’re encouraging every resident and local business owner or manager to take this survey from their residence or business to ensure their internet challenges are heard.”
Brian Fochtman
Somerset County Commissioner
“This study will provide us with an in-depth look at what areas of the County lack broadband internet access. With this knowledge, Somerset County will be best positioned to advocate for our residents, apply for funding opportunities, and conduct productive conversations with internet service providers looking to invest in our County.”
Pamela Tokar-Ickes
Somerset County Commissioner
“This internet survey and speed test will help develop our strategy. as we look to make investments in local broadband infrastructure,” said Somerset County Commissioner Pamela Tokar-Ickes. “We’re encouraging every resident and local business owner or manager to take this survey from their residence or business to ensure their internet challenges are heard.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the information you provide will remain secure and will only be used for broadband planning purposes. It will never be shared or sold.
The Somerset County Commissioners are advancing the Somerset County Connect Broadband Initiative.
Broadband allows users to connect to the internet at speeds significantly higher than those with more traditional dial-up services. Without a high-speed connection, a person’s ability to use various features and functions of the modern internet, such as telehealth or educational streaming services, is unreliable.
The survey is now closed.
County officials have worked to identify Early Action Project areas. Once funding is secure, these areas are likely to see new infrastructure first, but a schedule for work in the remaining areas of the County will be developed as well, as funding becomes available. Join the Connect Somerset County email list to receive the latest information on broadband expansion, and be the first to know when high-speed internet is coming to your area!
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