INDIANAPOLIS – Today, Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Broadband Office announced that Miami County is now designated as an official Broadband Ready Community. The Broadband Ready Communities Program was created as a tool to encourage broadband development throughout Indiana.
The Broadband Ready Community certification sends a signal to the telecommunication industry that a community has taken steps to reduce barriers to broadband infrastructure investment.
“Communities across all corners of the state have been prioritizing broadband infrastructure and investment for their communities,” Crouch said. “It’s communities like Miami County who are making a difference in the connectivity space. I want to applaud Miami County leaders who have taken steps to further attract broadband investment.”
The certification was approved by the Indiana Broadband Office following the Miami County Commissioners adoption of a Broadband Ready Community ordinance.
“Receiving the State’s certification as a Broadband Ready Community is an indication of the priority given to the expansion of Broadband throughout Miami County. This certification strengthens our efforts and long-term vision to provide access to affordable broadband to every resident of the County,” said Alan Hunt, Chairman of the Miami County Board of Commissioners. “In addition to Miami County’s certification, the County is currently in the process of developing a Broadband Strategy that will identify priority areas for investment so that critical local revenues can leveraged for the best results in partnership with internet providers. We thank the State of Indiana for this Broadband Ready Certification for our community.”
Earnie Holtrey, Deputy Director of the Indiana Broadband Office extended the office’s accolades to Miami County leadership.
“It’s great to see Miami County lead their community towards reliable and affordable broadband connectivity. When communities prioritize this for their businesses and citizens, many benefit. Congratulations,” said Holtrey.
Via 2020 legislation, the Broadband Ready Community Program was transitioned from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) to the Office of Community and Rural
Affairs (OCRA). IBO began the day-to-day management of the Broadband Ready Community Program on July 1, 2020. For more information, visit in.gov/indianabroadband.
SOURCE: News release from Indiana Broadband
