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Nevada reportedly will maximize its broadband availability to its residences by using geographic information system, or "GIS" technology, to create detailed maps of state broadband coverage. The maps will be created by Connected Nation (News - Alert), a nonprofit organization, using ESRI GIS software, and will provide a platform for prioritizing new broadband projects in the state.

 

The state recently named Washington, D.C.-based Connected Nation as its designated eligible entity under the State Broadband Data and Development Grant Program. With its goal of increasing broadband access, Connected Nation will assist the Nevada Broadband Task Force, appointed by Nevada governor Jim Gibbons, with mapping that supports broadband stimulus grant applications.

 

"My administration is committed to improving the availability of quality broadband service for all Nevadans," Gibbons said. "To accomplish that goal, Nevada must be proactive in taking the steps necessary to ensure that we maximize the amount of broadband stimulus funding awarded to the state and its providers. Connected Nation's extensive experience working with other states to increase broadband availability and use will be a great asset to the Nevada Broadband Task Force as it works to achieve its objectives."

 

Connected Nation officials said that the company, “believes that states, communities, families and individuals can realize great economic and social advantages when we accelerate broadband availability in underserved areas and increase broadband use in all areas, rural and urban, alike,” has worked with Kentucky, Ohio, Minnesota, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, and--most recently--Texas to promote access to and use of high-speed Internet connections.

 

The company’s first step is to create a complete picture of Nevada’s gaps in broadband coverage using intelligent map products that combine broadband service provider data with detailed, street-level maps and local demographics.

 

Analysis use ESRI (News - Alert) ArcGIS technology to identify optimum areas for development potential at the street, household, and census block levels. Officials said ESRI's Web-enabled ArcGIS Server makes it possible to share these maps on the Internet with interactive capabilities, giving service providers, businesses, and consumers a way to access the information and verify or challenge the reported coverage areas. Connected Nation also offers a toll-free telephone hotline for consumers without Internet access.

 

With more than $7 billion in federal stimulus funds that public and private corporations are competing for that, the funds will be divided as grants and loans to build and expand broadband infrastructure, public computing centers, and sustainable broadband adoption programs. Federal funds are also available for states to create and maintain GIS broadband maps. 

Connected Nation has served as the archetype for the Broadband Data Improvement Act state initiative grant program, officials said, and the company has proven procedures that are seamlessly aligned with the goals and guidelines of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.