Supes want everyone to have internet

As part of their initiative to bring broadband access to all Madison County residents, county officials are asking for input from residents to help identify areas with low or no access to high-speed internet.

“Many residents need not only internet connectivity but also access to high-speed internet,” Supervisor Karl M. Banks said. “Lack of infrastructure, devices, digital skills, and affordability issues make accessing online resources difficult for some residents. This is a comprehensive project that will have a positive impact.” 

Residents interested in providing input can visit research.net/r/MadisonBroadband to complete a brief survey or visit the Facebook page, Madison County MS Government.

Madison County Board of Supervisors spokesman Heath Hall said those without internet access can participate by visiting the Madison County offices at 125 West North Street in Canton to take the survey in person.

Hall said the survey is open to the public through July 31.

As part of the Madison County Broadband Initiative, the Board of Supervisors approved funding to bring high-speed internet to homes and businesses in the rural areas of Madison County.

“A special thank you to my colleagues on the Board for their assistance in helping make this possible,” Bank said.

Phase Two of the Madison County Broadband Initiative identified the need to provide fiber-to-the-home broadband service in the northwest area of the county. 

“Once the unserved and underserved locations are identified,” Hall said. “the board will develop a plan to provide equitable access to high-speed internet access in this area of the county.”

Phase I focused on the northeast portion of the county. Madison County received funding for Phase I through the Broadband Expansion and Accessibility of Mississippi (BEAM) office and additional funding sources, which will provide broadband service to approximately 4,000 businesses and residences, Hall said.