Thousands of Alabamians still lack access to high-speed Internet

As part of this year’s “Digital Inclusion Week” [October 4th through 8th], “A-A-R-P Alabama” is calling attention to the thousands of residents—throughout the state—who still lack access to high-speed Internet. The group’s Jamie Harding explains… “Even before the pandemic, too many Alabamians were on the wrong side of the ‘digital divide’: In fact, the state ranks 47th in the nation, for Internet-access—with almost three-fourths of its residents lacking access to an affordable plan. But, the pandemic has underscored the importance of being able to connect—with students taking virtual classes; employees working remotely; and medical appointments and even social visits taking place online. That’s why many Alabamians have been more isolated than ever. We applaud our elected-leaders for taking bipartisan action—such as billions of dollars that have already been appropriated to improve broadband-access nationally, plus billions more that are part of the current infrastructure-bill. If we want Alabama and its residents to flourish, we must make high-speed Internet more available, affordable, and accessible to all.” Harding also urges Alabamians to help the state locate gaps in high-speed service—by visiting “alabama”-dot-“speed-survey”-dot-org, or by calling 334/353-4589.