ADECA announces new interactive broadband connectivity map

Today the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) announced the release of the Alabama Broadband Map, which provides information on which areas in the state have broadband connectivity. 

The Alabama Connectivity Plan was also released. It uses mapping data in order to recommend strategies for broadband expansion and can be seen under the Plans and Reports section of adeca.alabama.gov/broadband.

ADECA collaborated with 57 internet service providers to create the map to "better determine eligibility for state and federal broadband investment to connect unserved areas; facilitate ISPs expansion planning efforts; and provide a more accurate depiction of broadband, including speeds and technology, in each census block of the state."

Additionally the map includes these other functions: 

• The public can research broadband availability and speeds across the state.
• The public can run a speed test and provide information about their current connectivity.
• Elected officials can evaluate broadband accessibility for their constituents.
• ISPs and other organizations can challenge the information on the map, contributing to its accuracy and usefulness.

“Broadband is vital infrastructure for Alabama, and this new map gives us the clearest and most accurate picture to date of broadband availability throughout the state,” Gov. Kay Ivey said in the announcement.

“Expanding access to high-speed internet will help bring more jobs, improve educational opportunities and bolster our economy. I commend ADECA, the internet service providers and all others involved in this mammoth effort to create this valuable new tool that will enhance our efforts to provide broadband services to every corner of Alabama.”