Wednesday, August 5, 2009

State of Nevada plans to map broadband coverage with GIS technology

Redlands, California—The State of Nevada is taking proactive steps to maximize broadband availability to Nevadans in its decision to use geographic information system (GIS) technology to create detailed maps of state broadband coverage. The maps will be created by Connected Nation, a nonprofit organization, using ESRI GIS software, and will provide a platform for prioritizing new broadband projects in the state.

Nevada recently named Connected Nation as its designated eligible entity under the State Broadband Data and Development Grant Program. With the 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. A statewide map identifying rural and remote areas that can be targeted for infrastructure grant funding is already available...