Lawrence County Seeks Community Input About Internet Access
A survey, speed test, and public meetings are part of the countywide project
NEW CASTLE, PA (March 16, 2023) – The Lawrence County Commissioners today announced its initiative to evaluate internet access and connectivity throughout the county. Link Up Lawrence is a multi-faceted project that will collect data and feedback over the course of several months to identify service needs and project opportunities. A final study and report will outline the findings and proposed next steps with the long-term goal of ensuring reliable high-speed internet is available to everyone in the county.
A key part of the work is engaging those who live and work in Lawrence County to better understand their experiences with internet service. Starting today, a survey and speed test is available to all interested residents, businesses, and organizations by visiting www.LinkUpLawrence.com.
“The work occurring as a part of the Link Up Lawrence initiative will place the County on a path to improved infrastructure and access,” said Commissioner Dan Vogel. “Having dependable internet is a necessity for participating in our 21st-century economy and society, and our work will ensure that Lawrence County is poised for success in our online world.”
To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the issues, the County will be hosting several public events to discuss the topic, has convened a taskforce of local and regional leaders to solicit their perspectives, and is conducting industry interviews with providers that have an existing footprint in the county.
“Public involvement is critical to the success of this project and for advancing internet availability in our county, and we want as many people as possible to be involved in this process by participating in the meetings, speed test, and survey,” said Commissioner Loretta Spielvogel. “The Link Up Lawrence initiative is a crucial step in advancing broadband projects and availability in our county.”
The data and information collected throughout the project will be analyzed for a final report and feasibility study. The Link Up Lawrence results will be announced in late 2023 and will include recommendations for addressing the areas of greatest need and accelerating broadband projects.
“Expanding internet availability will level the playing field for Lawrence County, bringing new opportunities for those who have been unserved or underserved for far too long,” said Lawrence County Director of Planning and Development Amy McKinney. “Connecting the areas that have not had service or have only had access to unreliable service will improve quality of life and economic viability.”
The survey and speed test will be available online at www.LinkUpLawrence.com until Friday, April 28. Hard copy surveys will be available for those who cannot access the internet. If you would like a hard copy, you can call 724-495-4302.
