The State of Iowa has launched a public-private effort to raise two million dollars to expand community broadband planning throughout Iowa.  Iowa’s Chief Information Officer, Bob Von Wolffradt, says the state has been involved in many efforts to increase broadband access across the state, including the “Connect Every Acre” initiative that provided tax incentives.

 

Governor Terry  Branstad says this new initiative is designed to build on the progress made with the state investment.

 

Recent F-C-C and Census data shows access to advanced, fixed broadband service is available to about one-third of Iowa, coupled with a state broadband adoption rate of just 75 percent.

Branstad says there’s also the possibility of some federal dollars from the new administration to help with broadband access. [You can find out more about the Connected Community Engagement program at: connectedcommunity.org.]