OPALCO is working with emergency services and public safety providers, the Economic Development Council and other stakeholders in the county to study how county-wide access to high-speed Internet services would benefit its members.
A green survey postcard in the mail will be asking for community input on what role OPALCO might play in this effort.
OPALCO representatives say expansion of its broadband infrastructure would improve its public safety network and advance the menu of telecommunication services available county-wide. Public safety improvements include better dispatch and two-way radio communications, enhanced 911 services and communication between first responders and hospitals.
While public safety is a primary concern, OPALCO recognizes that higher-speed Internet access and more reliable wide-spread broadband services could help telecommuting and small business applications, mobile data acquisition and streaming video.
OPALCO is working with industry experts to formally investigate the feasibility of expanding broadband access.
Watch for a green survey postcard in mailboxes in mid-October. Of the surveys received by Oct. 28, ten names will be drawn to receive a $100 bill credit.
