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Hanover’s Perspective

Crowdsourcing Initiative to Map Broadband Access in Virginia

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Hanover County prides itself on maintaining its rural roots while offering convenient access to the urban amenities of Downtown Richmond. It’s often said that residents here get the best of both worlds.

However, internet connectivity speeds can sometimes vary by geographical location in Hanover. Some of the more pastoral areas may not enjoy the same high speeds as other more densely populated portions of the County.

In May, Governor Terry McAuliffe signed House Bill 912 making it easier to put telecommunications infrastructure in the rights-of-way for state-maintained roads. A key component of this new initiative in Virginia, RUOnlineVA, provides a platform for residents and businesses to notify the Commonwealth whether or not they have access to broadband Internet connections.

In addition to these components, the Governor’s budget includes $2.5 million for the Virginia Telecommunications Initiative, which provides funding for infrastructure expansion in underserved areas of the Commonwealth.

“This initiative gives citizens and businesses the opportunity to have a direct impact on the future of broadband in the Commonwealth,” said Secretary of Technology Karen Jackson. “By identifying where the greatest demand is, RUOnlineVA will set a foundation for state-level broadband strategies and policies that will help get broadband to every part of Virginia.”

Virginia residents in need of Internet service are asked to log onto RUOnline.virginia.gov or call (877) 969-6685 and answer a few simple questions regarding where they live and what level of connectivity they have. Responses will be aggregated, mapped, and shared with policy makers and the public to stimulate broadband policy and funding discussions throughout the remainder of the administration.

“This statewide initiative coupled with other projects in Hanover such as the SummitIG dark fiber construction offers a great opportunity to improve the broadband infrastructure in Hanover County,” said Edwin Gaskin, Hanover’s Director of Economic Development.