GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — Town officials urge residents to participate in the Digital Equity Survey developed by the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI), to help improve internet access and digital equity. 

 

The survey is available until Aug. 31.

 

The five-minute anonymous survey can be found here, or by cutting and pasting this URL: https://tinyurl.com/muppxf76

 

Residents are urged to share the survey with friends, colleagues and family.

 

This survey will help inform the state's investment of historic funding and future investments to provide improved connectivity for all residents of Massachusetts. The goal is to increase access to education, healthcare, civic engagement, economic, and other opportunities.

 

"The town is seeking to better understand the connectivity needs in our community, so we hope everyone will please take a few minutes to complete this survey," said Chris Rembold, assistant town manager and director of planning/community development.

 

According to the MBI, "the survey will help MBI to develop a comprehensive Digital Equity Plan for the state and ensure that all Massachusetts residents can fully experience the opportunities that come from having the access and skills to use computers and the internet in their everyday life. It's critical for residents to respond to the survey so their voices and perspectives can be included in the state's plans."

 

Locally, the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission will begin work on Digital Equity Planning in 13 Berkshire County communities, as part of the state's effort to ensure equitable access and affordability of broadband to residents who need it.