Westmoreland residents can help map next phase of broadband expansion through survey

Westmoreland residents over the next several months will be asked to help map out an expansion of broadband internet in the county.

Officials this week announced the kickoff of a survey of the existing broadband infrastructure and service areas as part of an effort to enhance accessibility throughout the more rural areas of the county.

“By the end of the year, we will finally have an accurate picture of where we need to focus our future investment in broadband,” county Commissioner Sean Kertes said.

The county’s planning and development office is working with Michael Baker International on a field inventory of fixed and mobile broadband availability throughout Westmoreland. Two survey teams from Michael Baker will be doing that work.

Commissioners in May approved an initial $659,000 contract with the company to complete the first phase of the study.

Corey Block, a planner in the county’s development department, said preliminary estimates based on 2020 census information determined about 3,600 homes and business in the county are without adequate internet service.

That figure is likely an undercount, Block said.

“We know there are pockets out there without service,” Block said.

Internet data will be collected based on survey results, as well as from readings recorded in local neighborhoods.

More on Broadband:

• Westmoreland to study county's broadband needs
• Internet access funds could boost connections for low-income families

Door hangers will be placed at the entryway to homes and businesses showing they have been field-verified and asking the owner to complete the broadband survey. The survey teams will perform mobile internet speed tests to record upload and download speeds at survey locations.

“Our goal is for all of our children and families to be able to do homework, work from home, access health care and take care of family business and social needs through a high-speed, secure internet connection,” Commissioner Gina Cerilli Thrasher said.

Funding for that effort could come from pandemic stimulus money the county received as part of Westmoreland’s $105 million share of the American Rescue Plan or from the federal infrastructure legislation approved last year by Congress.

County Commissioner Doug Chew said participation in the survey is crucial when it comes to accurately planning how to proceed with broadband expansion.

“It is critical that the internet work as well as all utilities that connect to every home in our county,” Chew said.

The survey is expected to be completed in early October, and results will be published in a report issued at year’s end, Block said.

To receive a printed copy of the survey, call 724-495-4350 or email feedback@westmoreland broadband.org.