The News Room
Contact Form Youtube

Elkton Leader: No High-Speed Internet Access Is A Big Disadvantage

In towns like Elkton, local leaders are trying to get high-speed internet up and running to attract more businesses to the area.

Rockingham County leaders want to know if residents have fast internet connection at their homes.

The area is teaming up with counties across the state to map out broadband internet availability.

Officials are asking all residents who have internet access to take the Accelerate Virginia Speed test.

The test will help identify areas in the county that need better access to high-speed internet services.

The news comes as many areas all over the Valley don't have any access to high-speed internet.

In towns like Elkton, local leaders are trying to get it up and running to attract more businesses to the area.

They say not having high-speed internet can be a big disadvantage, especially with businesses.

Jim Berg, who's the volunteer Director of Economic Development in Elkton, said businesses expect high-speed internet nowadays.

By being able to offer it in buildings, it's easier to attract entrepreneurs to the town.

That's not the case right now, and as he explained, until the town gets faster internet it will be tough convincing a company to go there.

"In today's world, speed is absolutely critical. That's what is expected today," Berg said. "You've got to be connected. High-speed internet is a tool. Some communities provide it, and then there are others that don't. That puts Elkton at a disadvantage."

Berg says time and money stand in the way of bringing high-speed internet to Elkton.

The Accelerate Virginia Speed study will highlight areas that need to be faster and possibly bring some change.

Taken from WHSV.com
Oct 27, 2011
Reporter: Tom Dempsey

No comments:

Post a Comment