BROADBAND MAPPING CHALLENGED IN NEW MEXICO

Overcoming the Digital Divide

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently updated its mapping system to show where high-speed internet is and is not available in the U.S. The map is intended to help states receive access to better federal funding that will improve broadband for their residents. Unfortunately, for many rural communities who lack available resources to internet access, the map is inaccurate.

The State of New Mexico, which ranks 39th nationally for internet access, asked RESPEC to help its communities challenge the map and improve their broadband access and position. RESPEC carried out the review and challenge to the FCC mapping across the state, encouraging community participation, and reporting thousands of location and availability challenges in just 2 months. Now communities across New Mexico are better positioned to receive maximum funding for high-speed infrastructure investments—potentially $80 million.

When communities are without reliable internet access, they can fall behind, missing opportunities and resources. Our data and technology experts help communities overcome their digital divide and get the resources they need to thrive.