From Kari Lews, MSU Extension, Glacier County Agent:

Have something to say about your internet service in Montana? Here is your chance to help determine what areas of the state need broadband investment to not only get high speed service but in some cases, simply get it at all!

The Montana Department of Administration has released a survey, asking people about their current home internet service and speed, how they use the internet and what obstacles they have to accessing high-speed service. Leaders ask that only Montana residents aged 18 or older complete the survey.

 In addition, consultants will hold a series of public meetings over the next two weeks to hear feedback on internet access in Montana. They’ll visit six cities:

 Billings: Wednesday, Sept. 7, 8 to 9 a.m., DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Billings, 27 N. 27th St.

Glendive: Thursday, Sept. 8, 8 to 9 a.m., Holiday Inn Express & Suites Glendive, 1919 N. Merrill Ave.

Glasgow: Friday, Sept. 9, 8 to 9 a.m., Cottonwood Inn & Suites, 54250 U.S. Highway 2

Kalispell: Monday, Sept. 12, 8 to 9 a.m., Hampton Inn Kalispell, 1140 U.S. Highway 2 W.

Great Falls: Tuesday, Sept. 13, 8 to 9 a.m., Heritage Inn, 1700 Fox Farm Rd,

Helena: Wednesday, Sept. 14, 8 to 9 a.m., Wingate by Wyndham Helena Airport, 2007 N. Oakes St.

 Leaders plan another tour around the state in the coming months.

In the announcement of the survey, the Department of Administration said the information will be key to understanding what Montanans need and how to increase access in the state.

“It is estimated that nearly 24% of Montanans do not have an internet subscription of any kind,” they said. “As such, this research is crucial to increasing connectivity and bridging the digital divide to better connect residents connected for school, work, and staying in touch with friends and family.”

The survey is relatively short and simple, please take a couple of minutes to do it HERE.

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