This project began in June 2022 when TCEDC embarked on a pioneering endeavor, joining the inaugural Broadband Ohio Accelerator program initiated by the Ohio Department of Development. This pivotal step enabled us to craft a comprehensive broadband business plan tailored to Tuscarawas County. Central to this strategy was the inception of the ConnecTusc campaign, an ambitious initiative to bridge the digital divide in our community.
To kickstart ConnecTusc, we rallied residents and businesses to participate in a crucial internet speed test, providing invaluable data for our survey. Leveraging software provided by OSU Extension, we meticulously identified areas within the county that were underserved or, worse yet, unserved. Our dedication to community engagement led us to launch an informative podcast, shedding light on the significance of our campaign.
Harnessing the power of social media, we disseminated short-form video clips from our podcast to launch a targeted ad campaign, urging stakeholders to contribute to our survey. With 840 participants, the overwhelming response underscores the pressing need for improved internet infrastructure across Tuscarawas County, leading us to create an ongoing community survey through our own website to offer residents and businesses a chance to continue reporting on the internet accessibility challenges they face.
Fueling our momentum, TCEDC issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to enlist Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in erecting fixed wireless towers throughout the county. Smart Way Communications emerged after a rigorous selection process, winning the project and presenting a compelling plan complemented by a commitment to inject $1,025,250 private-sector investment into the project.
TCEDC submitted a robust application for the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) Power Grant by leveraging SmartWay's funding commitment with $1 million in ARPA funds set aside by the county commissioners to expand internet access. On October 20, 2023, we issued a press release announcing we had secured another $1,079,000 from ARC as a winner of their Power Grant. The grant award propelled our total budget to an impressive $3,104,250, earmarked for revolutionizing internet access in our region.
The scope of our project is ambitious yet achievable. We aim to serve 326 businesses, including vital agri-businesses, and 12,500 households across six identified underserved and unserved locations. By aligning our efforts with the latest census data, encompassing 37,774 households countywide, ConnecTusc aspires to elevate internet accessibility for a significant portion of our population, leveraging an initial investment of $1,000,000 of county funds to uplift 33% of households lacking adequate connectivity.
Join us as we embark on this transformative journey, propelling Tuscarawas County into a future of connectivity, opportunity, and prosperity. Together, we can bridge the digital divide and unlock our community's full potential.