Broadband

High-speed internet access across Pennsylvania is acceptable, yet 4% of the population are underserved with minimum service options available, and 1.2% of Pennsylvanians have no wired internet access at all.

Lawmakers are making broadband access a priority. Penn State Extension is working hard to raise awareness of broadband needs within the state and provide bidders and legislators with broadband-related information.

Broadband Internet Access in Pennsylvania

Look at the map published by the Federal Communications Commission, and Pennsylvania appears to have excellent access to high-speed internet. Pennsylvania is the 16th most connected state in the USA, with 98% of Pennsylvanians having access to 10 MBPS internet service from 210 broadband providers. However, the reality is that many in rural areas don’t enjoy the benefits the map would indicate.

A lack of internet access has severe ramifications for those affected. For example, parents have to drive to high school parking lots so their children can finish their homework. Farmers are deprived of the money-saving advantages of digital technology. Companies are reticent to move into the state and create jobs. Residents have little or no access to online learning opportunities and telemedicine.

The Pennsylvania state government is now offering incentives to companies willing to help bridge the digital divide and improve internet access in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development has made an interactive map to show the types of broadband service provided at each location in the state. Providers looking for funding can take advantage of various broadband funding and information resources. The Pennsylvania Broadband Investment Incentive Program offers up to $35 million in financial incentives to private providers bidding on service areas within Pennsylvania. The goal is for every Pennsylvanian to have access to high-speed internet by 2022.

Rural Broadband

One of the most critical issues for local governments this century is broadband connectivity and access to high-speed internet for everyone.

The COVID-19 pandemic showed just how essential access to high-speed internet is. When schools are closed and non-essential employees work from home, we all feel the fundamental need for reliable broadband connectivity and access. A lack of reliable broadband access affects some local governments’ ability to hold virtual public meetings and provide residents with services.

Being able to connect digitally is critical for medical doctors who want to reach many patients. Teachers need it to reach their students remotely. Rural broadband allows farmers to access the most up-to-date agricultural data, diversify their sales methods, and reach a broader customer base.

Broadband Bidding

Pennsylvania internet service providers are being encouraged to look at ways they can expand their coverage in underserved census blocks. Census blocks are small geographic units of variable size. In areas with low population density, these blocks can cover hundreds of square miles.

Interested internet service providers can apply for funding from the Pennsylvania Broadband Investment Program. In consultation with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, Penn State Extension has made available an interactive map. The aim is to help providers prepare to bid on projects to expand broadband services in Pennsylvania.

Also available are Pennsylvania School District Census Block Level Internet Service Maps. These maps provide the latest available FCC internet speed data.