The ConnectingALABAMA Initiative
ConnectingALABAMA is a multi-year initiative promoting the availability and adoption of broadband internet access throughout the state of Alabama.
Launched as a state-funded program under Governor Riley’s administration in late 2008, the project recently won additional Federal grant funding
through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s “Broadband Data & Development Program (BDDP)”. Beginning anew in November,
2009, and extending through October 2011, the program is designed to identify and ultimately fill gaps in broadband access – leading to enhancements
in online education, healthcare, public safety, agriculture, tourism, and more.
Currently the initiative is working to:
- Survey existing service providers to identify and map where broadband service exists across the state – and to identify where
there are un-served or under-served areas - particularly in rural Alabama.
- Work with governmental, community and industry leaders from across the state to articulate a clear vision for Alabama’s broadband
future – and to develop (and fund) regional technology adoption and growth strategies addressing the needs of communities in all sixty-seven (67) counties.
Over the next two years, efforts will focus on encouraging private investment for high-speed internet deployment, and on promoting consumer adoption. Through this effort,
ConnectingALABAMA will develop a roadmap for the most efficient approach to realizing broadband accessibility and usage throughout the state.
Learn more about the Alabama-focused ARRA applications by visiting broadbandusa.gov.
Workshop slides are available on the Providers Page
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Consumers