Dear Friends:
Much is happening on the broadband front these days, so it seems an update is in order. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Sharon Ferry of Berkshire Connect (bconnect@rnetworx.com) or Jessica Atwood of Pioneer Valley Connect (jatwood@frcog.org).
Broadband Legislation Hearing
On Thursday, February 14, an excellent public hearing was held at the Statehouse to hear testimony on the broadband bill, House No. 4311, An Act Establishing and Funding the Massachusetts Broadband Institute. It was standing room only as Chairman Mark Montigny recognized the western Massachusetts delegation for its diligence in bringing to the attention of the committee the broadband challenges faced by their constituents and he also acknowledged the work done by Berkshire Connect and Pioneer Valley Connect. Testimony was presented by Governor Patrick; Rep. Kulik; Rep.
Guyer; Sen. Downing; Rep. Pignatelli; Rep. Bosley; Housing and Economic Development Secretary Daniel OConnell; Telecommunications and Cable Commissioner Sharon Gillett; Administration and Finance Undersecretary Jay Gonzalez; Berkshire Connect President Don Dubendorf; and Pioneer Valley Connect Co-Chair Linda Dunlavy. A special thanks to those western Massachusetts citizens who took time to attend the hearing and give such compelling personal testimonies.
There is every indication that the bill will be passed in this legislative session as Chairman Montigny stated that he believes this is exactly how the state should use bonding monies. We will continue to monitor the legislative process regarding this bill and keep you informed as details emerge.
Regional Broadband Survey
If you havent responded yet to the Regional Broadband Survey, its not too late! In response to requests from area communities, the survey deadline has been extended to April 30. We can not stress enough the importance of responding to this survey. Data collected will be used to produce a mapping product that will more clearly identify the unserved areas of Western Massachusetts. If your only internet options are dial-up or satellite, you most definitely want to respond! This is your chance to be heard!
March 1st Western MA Broadband Forum
On March 1, A Broadband Forum for Western Massachusetts will be held at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center in Northampton from 8:30am to 3:30pm. For more information about registration, exhibitor space and an updated agenda, visit www.masstech.org/broadband/bbevent/home.html. You may also register by contacting Adele Burnes at 508-898-3228 x1608 or burnes@masstech.org.
This event is being hosted by State Senator Stanley Rosenberg and State Representative Stephen Kulik, and is sponsored by Berkshire Connect, Inc., Pioneer Valley Connect, and the John Adams Innovation Institute of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative.
Online Broadband Forum
Berkshire Connect and Pioneer Valley Connect (the Connects) have created an online community forum in response to requests from unserved residents and businesses of Western Massachusetts. The goal of this forum is to remove information 'silos' and provide a space to discuss the issue of broadband availability in this region. We encourage you to visit http://broadband.rnetworx.com
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