Having Access-The Importance of Rural Broadband in Pennsylvania

Staying connected allows for medical doctors to reach a broader swath of patients. It provides teachers the opportunity to reach their students remotely and expand global learning opportunities.  Rural broadband gives farmers access to the most up-to-date agricultural data to enhance precision farming and provides them the opportunity to diversify their sales methods and reach a broader customer base.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, much of a Pennsylvanian's daily routine is now happening from home.  Working remotely or attempting high-quality education can be challenging when internet services are below par.  In a recent study published by The Center for Rural Pennsylvania, it was indicated through cross-checks using 2010 Census findings and 2016 FCC data that 187,000 Pennsylvanians lack access to even the minimal connectivity required to meet federal standards for "broadband."  According to one report, at least 775,000 Pennsylvania residents do not have access to 25Mbps connection speeds. It also indicated that most rural Pennsylvania residents described their service offerings as "low quality" and "unreliable".

In a recent brief from the Northeast Center Regional Center for Rural Development, the urgency of rural broadband infrastructure post-COVID-19 is addressed and it also indicates the importance of building consumer awareness so that rural areas will be able to remain competitive. With the new normal of remote work, it is essential that rural areas have access to reliable broadband services.

Resources

Rural PA. Broadband Availability and Access in Rural Pennsylvania. (n.d.).

Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development. Rural Broadband Investment Urgently Needed in the COVID-19 Crisis (n.d.)