3-4-21 envision greater fdl-broadband internet access survey

Envision Greater Fond du Lac is partnering with Fond du Lac County to survey residents about broadband internet access and service.  All residents are encouraged to complete the survey detailing their home internet capabilities.  Envision Vice president of Economic Development Jim Cleveland says broadband access has been a heightened topic during the pandemic.  Cleveland says internet upload and download speeds are really low or non-existent in some parts of Fond du Lac County.  Cleveland says based on current estimates 11 percent of county residents do not have internet access at home, either due to lack of availability or cost.  Cleveland says return on investment is another factor.  Survey results will be used to work with internet providers to apply for grant funding to implement internet upgrades and service expansion.  The residential survey will  be followed by a survey of county businesses.