Data released last month by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) show broadband Internet availability, as claimed by broadband providers (June 30, 2013). The data includes mobile and satellite coverage, although the map just shows fixed broadband availability where a subscription can be bought for the home. Technologies shown include DSL, cable, fiber optic, and fixed wireless.  Mobile wireless and satellite, if they are the only option to connect to the Internet at home, are considered too expensive to be a viable solution for most households.

The new data shows that many areas, especially rural and remote areas, continue to remain underserved or unserved by fixed broadband. This makes sense because more remote areas require a greater investment in infrastructure among broadband providers, while accessing fewer customers, hence lack a return on investment (ROI)  Yet, without adequate broadband access, community development in these areas will remain limited as businesses and increasingly, higher-income residents seek areas to live where they have access to fast and reliable Internet access. Most of these communities  already are less wealthy than the state average, and they will fall further behind without improvements in Internet speeds.

Some may be surprised by the Internet speed claimed to be available by Internet providers in their area. The data released by the CPUC includes the provider name. Users with GIS experience can download the data set themselves and look up information, or they can use the soon-to-be-updated interactive California Broadband Map. Feedback and public ground-truth efforts are highly encouraged by the CPUC, and information on the various ways to test connectivity and provide feedback are available: Click Here.

The Center for Economic Development is working with the CPUC and various regional broadband planning consortia throughout the state to help them understand incoming broadband availability data and where the gaps in access among populated areas are located. This information is being used to plan and implement grant applications for infrastructure investment through the California Advanced Services Fund (CASF) to help get these more remote communities connected! For more information, please call the CED at (530) 898-4598.

To see recent articles published by the Sonoma Gazette click on the articles below.

The Unfortunate State of Rural High Speed Internet

What Quality of Internet Service do You Actually Have?

Rural Internet: California Wants Your Input

Rural Internet: Survey Options & Mobile Provider Performance Test 

The 2014 Economic Forecast Conference will provide an in-depth and candid look at where the national, state and North Valley economies are heading in the near and long-term future. This year's conference will focus on healthcare, examining the many ways in which this vast industry presents us with opportunities for growth and prosperity.

Visit every tradeshow exhibit for a chance to win an iPad!

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Early Bird prices available before January 1!

Individual $99
Table $699 (8 seats)

After January 1, Individual registration is $149 and table registration is $1,043.
 
Tradeshow Exhibitor $200
City Council or County Supervisor $49
Student (with ID) $35

Registration includes hot breakfast, general session, lunch, breakout sessions, networking reception, and one copy of the North Valley Economic Scorecard, 5th Edition.

To exhibit at the tradeshow or sponsor the conference, contact Georgia Nilsson at gnilsson@csuchico.edu.  There are still opportunities available!

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