MO Broadband Initiative

Over the course of the next five years, the current administration has made it a top priority to connect the State of Missouri with not only the rest of the country but with the global market with broadband technology.  By 2015 at least 95% of Missourians should have direct access to broadband capabilities.

What is Broadband?

Broadband can be summarized as high-speed internet access.  It is constantly changing and being challenged.  Broadband is typically used to describe internet service that is faster than dial-up internet access.  The National Telecommunications and Information Administration currently defines broadband as speeds that move data at a rate of 768 kilobits per second (Kbps) downstream and 200 Kbps upstream.

Broadband differs from Dial-Up Service by:

Providing higher-speed of data transmission
Providing access to the highest quality internet services
Broadband is always on and does not block phone lines or other networks
Lessening delay time when downloading or sending files

Impact on Missouri

The benefits of broadband capabilities throughout the State of Missouri reach into almost every sector.  From economic development to agriculture to education, broadband has the potential to allow residents and workers to operate at their highest capacity.

1. Businesses across the state will have access to global markets. 
2. Online educational opportunities can reduce costs and increase the reach of educational institutions.
3. Doctors and health care professionals can begin to see clients in rural areas or locations hundreds of miles away from their office through broadband technology to diagnose and treat patients
4. Agricultural workers will be able to utilize technology to determine soil conditions as well as allowing for increased access to supplies.

How to Get Involved

Leaders in several sectors such as agriculture, economic development, health care, and education as well as the general public are invited to participate in the planning process for developing access to broadband services throughout the State.  Regional meetings are tentatively scheduled for early 2011.
For more information please contact Randy White or Nicole Knipmeyer at Pioneer Trails Regional Planning Commission at (660) 463-7934.

Regional Technology Planning Team Report:

Pioneer Trails RPC Broadband Study Power Point August 2011

Click below to view a copy of the report.

The Missouri 2010 Final Broadband Award Report