Broadband Expansion in Alabama: Make Your Voice Heard

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The ability to connect to high-speed internet (also called "broadband") is more important than ever, and Alabama is preparing to take in millions of dollars to address expansion of this important utility. High-speed internet access is critically important to Alabama's communities in order to help residents access employment opportunities, education and job training, business development, and access to telehealth.

This month, the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is having community meetings in Jefferson, Talladega, Escambia, Hale and Pickens Counties to seek community input as it plans how to reduce Alabama’s current gaps in access to this utility.

ADECA and local leaders need to hear from you about the challenges facing your communities when trying to get affordable, reliable, high-speed internet services to everyone who needs it.

Join AARP Alabama to ensure that all Alabamians – regardless of age, ability, income, or whether they live in communities of color, low-income communities, tribal lands, or rural areas – have access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet, as well as the equipment and digital skills required to use the service effectively.

Upcoming Alabama Community Broadband Technical Assistance Program (TAP) Meetings:

Jefferson County - January 23, 2023
Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham, 2 20th Street North, Suite 2000, Birmingham AL, 35203

Talladega County - January 25, 2023
Talladega City Hall, 255 South Street West, Talladega, AL 35160

Escambia County - January 26, 2023
Brewton City Hall, 1010 A Douglas Avenue, Brewton, AL 36426

Hale County - January 27, 2023
Hale County College and Career Academy, 19875 AL 69, Greensboro, AL 36744

Pickens County - January 31, 2023
Pickens County College and Career Center, 99 Commerce Avenue, Carrollton, AL 35447

Each Meeting Will Follow this Agenda:

9:00 am – 10:00 am        Elected Official Briefing

10:00 am – 10:15 am      Break

10:15 am-11:15 am         Elected Officials and Internet Service Providers Engagement

11:15 am – 11:30 am      Public comments and Q&A

11:30 am – 1:00 pm         Lunch on your own

1:00 pm – 2:00 pm          Government and community leaders engagement stakeholders

2:00 pm – 2:15 pm          Public comments and Q&A

*All meetings are open to the public