Regional Opportunity Initiatives works to provide better internet to rural communities

Regional Opportunity Initiatives works to provide better internet to rural communities

Reliable reliable reliable internet has become a necessity for many working families across the valley.

But that necessity isn't always redily available.

Now... a non-profit is hoping to help those families.

News 10 bureau chief gary brian tells us how they need your input.

Pkg gar} "here in the southern part of the viewing area there's plenty of mom n' pop shops as well as sights to see.

But the one thing that folks have a problem getting is good internet connection."

The pandemic has shown a spotlight on many problems americans are facing.

In daviess, martin and greene counties...one of the biggest problems is getting reliable internet.

"44% so far of those responding are telling us they're unsatisfied with their broadband access.

It's either slow or it's unreliable.

16 and a half percent are saying we don't have any."

Those are early results from a regional opportunity initiatives survey.

For many in daviess, martin and greene...those results probably aren't surprising.

When schools went to remote learning...many students had to use physical packets to do schoolwork.

But roi's survey hopes to provide better net to those who need it.

"this data is going to begin to paint a picture that's going to allow us to really advocate for our region.

And to begin understanding what solutions are required."

Part of that process is setting up county digital advisory teams. these teams bring community leaders together with internet providers.

Hoping to help streamline the process when opportunties become available.

"beginning to organize within each county.

Having people around the table that are informed and know what's happening there is going to allow them to have better conversations with their providers in their areas and their communities.

It's going to allow them to advocate."

The survey will close on november 16th.

Gar} "it'll take little less than a year to get a full analysis on their findings.

Working from home in vincennes, gary brian news 10."

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