Improving broadband in rural Northeast Oregon
By Paul Hall on Thursday, November 11th, 2021 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
NORTHEAST OREGON – (Information provided by Northeast Oregon Economic Development District) NEOEDD is forming county-level Broadband Action Teams (BATs) in Union and Wallowa counties. Our approach is based on Washington State University Extension’s effective model to foster stakeholder collaboration to improve broadband planning and deployment. BATs are diverse, multi-stakeholder groups that discuss broadband challenges and opportunities, leading to greater awareness, access, and adoption.
Purpose
The purpose of NEOEDD’s Broadband Action Teams is to improve broadband usability and versatility in NE Oregon and increase collaboration across sectors and interests.
Role of BATs
Identify areas of need
Promote participation in broadband testing and/or surveys
Identify planned infrastructure investments and shovel-ready projects
Identify remaining gaps in service
Identify steps needed to address service gaps
Identify community/business broadband adoption obstacles and solutions
Connect with statewide broadband service providers and experts
Connect projects to funding opportunities
Provide support for funding applications
How to Get Involved
Join one of the upcoming BAT meetings via Zoom. The first meetings of the BATs will take place:
November 30-l:00 pm – Wallowa County BAT – Zoom Link
December 2 – noon – Union County BAT – Zoom Link
If you are interested in participating on the BAT, contact lisadawson@neoedd.org or jackbarnicle@neoedd.org or call 541-426-3598.
