Council hears presentation from broadband-ready communities

At Monday’s Corry City Council work session, Michelle Jaggi, executive director of the Erie Area Council of Governments (ECOG), presented a Powerpoint on broadband expansion. The presentation focused on strategies to expand high-speed Internet access in Erie County and organize a broadband initiative.

Jaggi said the initiative is a program by Pennsylvania Broadband Authorities to reduce barriers to broadband expansion in Erie County.

Jaggi explained his aim during a meeting with Corry Town Council.

“The program is an effort to help coordinate local efforts and deployment of broadband infrastructure as we prepare to receive a significant influx of money to supplement all unserved and underserved areas in our communities when it comes to broadband access,” Jaggi said.

Erie County’s goal, Jaggi said, is to have 100 percent of all municipalities broadband ready.

“Basically, the broadband authority is asking city officials to review their current permitting and policy procedures, and make decisions to make any changes that might help make efficient use of the money that will flow through the broadband State for financing. broadband infrastructure development,” Jaggi said.

Jaggi highlighted the benefits of the program, explained how the town of Corry could participate in the program and noted that participation is optional and not directly linked to funding.

“It’s just to show the ISPs (internet service providers) that you’re ready to grow and to encourage that construction to happen here,” Jaggi said.

Jaggi concludes that she will be available to answer any questions the Council may have.

I am here to support all municipalities in their progress and to answer all your questions,” she said.