Columbia County reaches 10% broadband access goal

LAKE CITY, Fla. — The Columbia County Board of County Commissioners reached its first milestone in the goal to provide broadband access throughout the county.

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The county hit the 10% goal last week as residents and businesses across the area participated in the “Internet Speed Test Survey.” The survey results highlight which areas of the county have internet service that meets state and federal guidelines, and where there are service gaps.

“Reaching this goal is the first step in bringing broadband access to all Columbia County residents,” said Toby Witt, District 4 county commissioner and Broadband committee chairman. “The county can now utilize this data to partner with state and federal agencies along with private sector internet providers to move this initiative forward.”

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The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity set the 10% goal as a meaningful sample size to provide a standard for broadband access across the county. This data will be used by the DEO to help increase broadband access.

The Columbia County Board of County Commissioners launched the Columbia Connected campaign in late April 2022 to promote the connectivity survey. The objective is to map residential and business internet access countywide.

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The campaign partnered with local media, Columbia County schools, volunteers throughout the community, and social media to distribute the survey.

The survey is still open and residents can visit www.ColumbiaCountyFla.com to take the “Internet Speed Test Survey” on the homepage. You can also follow Columbia County on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ColumbiaCountyFlorida.