By Lakyra Banks
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) – In a growing digital age, accessibility to the internet has become a necessity in almost all aspects of life. However, many communities across Arkansas still lack high-speed internet access.
The natural state is ranked 49th in the nation when it comes to the availability of high speed internet, according to a study by BroadbandNow. The ranking is based on access to low-price plans, coverage, and broadband competition. Nationally, about 94% percent of people have access to the internet, but in Arkansas, that number falls to 77%. Data from the Arkansas State Broadband Manager’s Report shows more than 270,000 locations across Arkansas do not have internet connectivity.
Importance of Internet Access
87% of Americans describe the internet as “essential” or “important” according to a Pew Research Study. Of those polled, global advancements in healthcare, education, business and agriculture were the main impacts of internet access.
“In the 21st century there is no single greater insurance for economic stability and personal stability than high-speed internet,” said Glen Howie, the director for Arkansas State Broadband office.
Healthcare has highlighted the digital divide between families with and without internet access. Heather Larkin, President and CEO of ENGAGE Arkansas considers telemedicine a necessity for families. She cites rising cost and efficient medical delivery as the main source of its importance.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the inequalities in internet access. According to the U.S. Department of Education, internet access allows students and teachers to expand instruction and education beyond the confines of the physical classroom. As stated on the department’s website, “Broadband can improve the flow of educational information, allowing teachers, parents and organizations to make better decisions tied to each student’s needs and abilities.” Despite the increased need, only 46% of Arkansas students in grades K-12 have internet access. When classes were transferred online, those without access were unable to participate in school, access healthcare and work remotely.
Internet Setbacks
While most government officials and residents say having internet access is important, securing that access is an issue.
“It is a very nuanced and difficult question and problem to work through because the folks who necessarily need connectivity most, are to this day the most unconnected,” said Howie.
Howie said a large struggle with getting more Arkansas connected to the internet is the digital skill component. While most people may try to reach out about getting or applying for assistance, without having trained skills, many residents are hesitant to do so.
“So, we have to really work very hard to lean on trusted partnerships within our communities, our communities of faith, philanthropies, and our non-profits. Those are the groups that are all around trusted individuals that can come in and be collaborative and help teach those digital skills and get them signed up for the programs they need.”
More than 35,000 Washington County residents are eligible for federal aid that would pay $100 for setting up high-speed internet. The state government would also cover up to $30 of a monthly bill. However, only about 9,000 households in the county are registered.
Arkansas’ Plan
Last year, $1 billion dollars of funding was announced for internet expansion. This year, the Arkansas State Broadband Office plans to have complete internet coverage by 2028.
“We are embarking on a 75 county tour. It’s 75 counties in 75 days. The main goal for us on these trips is sort of explain the three pillars of broadband access,” said Howie.
The funding would go towards broadband committees to help communities gain access to the internet. The money would also get fiber optic cables to every home and business within the state at no costs.
“This is not a ‘one size fits all’ plan from the state.”
That state plans to string 20 miles of fiber-optic cable across cities. Howie said adding more cables would give more residential areas and businesses better access to high-speed internet and eliminate some of the gaps in those areas.