New Texas Map Identifies Areas in Texas Lacking Critical Broadband Services

On Wednesday, with the assistance of Connected Texas and the Public Utility Commission, I released a new and unprecedented map that clearly identifies which parts of Texas still do not have access to broadband services. This interactive map should prove to be a useful tool in determining coverage availability, providers and pricing, in much the same way the power-to-choose site helps consumers in selecting their electrical service provider.

The map, which includes data from 123 broadband providers, indicates that approximately 96 percent of Texas households have access to home broadband service; however, a quarter of a million households in the Lone Star State — more than all of the households in Vermont — lack access to this critical broadband service. In terms of landmass, 45 percent of the state is not covered by home broadband service.

Not having access to broadband services in the 21st century poses a challenge for rural communities in Texas that we know are losing educational, medical and economic development opportunities and services due to a lack of high-speed Internet. By pinpointing the unserved areas, public and private industry projects can be developed that will lead to connecting all of Texas.

I'd like to encourage all Texans to view the map and assist us with validating the collected information. Visit www.connectedtx.org to participate. Together, we can make sure no Texan is left behind on the information superhighway.

USA Today Article Highlights TDA's Effort to Increase Broadband Access in Rural Texas

A recent article in USA Today focused on broadband access to rural Texas. According to the information provided, “Currently, about 57% of urban households and 60% of suburban households subscribe to broadband. In rural areas, only 38% do, according to a report by the Communications Workers of America.”

You can see why we at the Texas Department of Agriculture have begun teaming with stakeholders and service providers to maximize federal stimulus funds for Texas. We recently partnered with the Public Utility Commission and are currently seeking proposals from telecommunications companies to map the state of Texas for broadband availability, which will help provide service to those areas lacking high-speed Internet connectivity.

Farm-to-Market is more than the name of a road. It is the lifeline that enables our state’s farmers and ranchers to provide us with the food, feed, fuel and fiber that is the cornerstone of our economy. They need access to the latest technology to move their quality goods to willing buyers and to compete in the global market.

It is essential our families, rural schools, hospitals and small businesses have fast access to the information superhighway if we are going to maintain a competitive advantage in Texas.

Not your typical highway

Your town may soon have a new highway running through it – but don’t worry; this isn’t your typical highway. We’re talking about an information superhighway.

Today, the FCC released a report detailing a plan that provides the foundation for policy development that will assist in the delivery of broadband services to rural America.

Earlier this month, we announced an effort here at TDA to help map Texas for broadband service availability. Once the state is mapped, we can better determine which areas need high-speed Internet services.

I applaud our federal partners for taking a great first step in connecting rural communities to the tools they need to enhance economic development and assist with their area’s future prosperity.