IN FOCUS: Expanding internet access in rural East Texas

Introduction

Access to the internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity in our daily lives. However, rural East Texas faces significant challenges in terms of broadband access. Despite claims from internet providers, many East Texans either have no access to broadband or experience poor performance that hinders normal internet usage.

The Digital Divide

The term “digital divide” is often used to describe the gap between those with broadband access and those without. In Texas, 23% of the population lacks access to online classes, remote healthcare, online job applications, starting an online business, or accessing online marketplaces from their homes. This digital divide hampers economic and educational opportunities for these individuals.

Efforts to Bridge the Gap

To address the digital divide, Rep. Trent Ashby authored House Bill 5, which established the Broadband Development Office (BDO) at the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. The BDO is responsible for creating a long-term plan, awarding grants, and addressing barriers for future broadband expansion. Additionally, the Federal Communications Commission released the National Broadband Map to allocate federal funds based on individual needs. However, both maps have been criticized for inaccuracies in representing broadband coverage in rural East Texas.

Challenges and Solutions

DETCOG conducted surveys to gather accurate data on broadband connection in Deep East Texas. The results showed that the majority of residents lack access to reliable high-speed internet. However, finding a solution is complex, as it requires individual home tests to demonstrate the lack of coverage. Currently, there is limited recourse for broadband complaints, with state representatives and senators being the best avenue for addressing the issue.

Progress and Effective Initiatives

Cherokee County Electric Cooperative Association is making significant strides in bringing internet access to all subscribers through their own plan using fiber optics. They started in the wealthiest area and are gradually expanding their coverage. Other local co-ops are also making exciting advancements in the broadband sector.

Reporting Internet Issues

It is estimated that it will take 5-7 years before all of East Texas has working broadband access. DETCOG has developed surveys and internet speed tests to gather data and correct the broadband maps. The Texas Broadband Development Office has also created a public survey to understand the barriers facing Texas households and develop a five-year action plan.

For more information and specific connectivity details, tune in to East Texas In Focus on FOX51 News at 9:30 p.m. on Saturday.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Relevant to the Article

SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article:

1. SDG 4: Quality Education
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
3. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
4. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
5. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
6. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
7. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Based on the Article’s Content:

• SDG 4.3: By 2030, ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational, and tertiary education, including university.
• SDG 8.1: Sustain per capita economic growth in accordance with national circumstances and, in particular, at least 7 percent gross domestic product growth per annum in the least developed countries.
• SDG 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all.
• SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
• SDG 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums.
• SDG 16.6: Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels.
• SDG 17.6: Enhance North-South, South-South, and triangular regional and international cooperation on and access to science, technology, and innovation and enhance knowledge sharing on mutually agreed terms.

Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article to Measure Progress towards the Identified Targets:

• Percentage of Texans unable to attend online classes, see a healthcare provider remotely, fill out a job application online, start an online business, or access online marketplaces from their home (Indicator for SDG 4.3)
• Gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate in rural East Texas (Indicator for SDG 8.1)
• Availability and coverage of broadband service in rural East Texas (Indicator for SDG 9.1)
• Percentage of Deep East Texans without access to reliable high-speed internet (Indicator for SDG 10.2)
• Percentage of homes in East Texas with working broadband access (Indicator for SDG 11.1)
• Effectiveness of politicians’ efforts to address broadband access issues (Indicator for SDG 16.6)
• Level of cooperation and knowledge sharing on broadband development between different stakeholders (Indicator for SDG 17.6)

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: ketk.com

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