Westport Island residents received a survey in their mailboxes this month from the Westport Island Broadband and Cable Committee. The survey - and the community's responses - are a key step in the Committee's efforts to bring broadband internet to the entire island using state and/or federal grants as the major source of funding. The Committee requests responses by Oct/ 15.

The survey collects critical information about the town’s current internet status and future requirements for broadband internet service, as well as residents' preferences on the two options for expanding broadband internet to the Island: 1) partnering with Spectrum to wire the rest of the island not covered by Spectrum’s cable TV service today, and 2) building a town-owned fiber-optic system.

Residents who haven't yet completed the survey are strongly encouraged to do so via one of three options:

Return a completed paper survey to the Town Office (6 Fowles Point Road)

Pick up and complete a paper survey at the Town Office

Answer the survey online at: https://wvfd.me/bbs

During two virtual forums this summer, residents strongly supported the Committee’s efforts to expand broadband internet. A strong show of support will help win funding to pay for the expansion. If residents are lukewarm, the Committee needs to know that to ensure time and energies are spent accordingly.

After the Oct. 15 survey close date, results will be tabulated and next steps planned. 

For more information please visit the Westport Island town website:  http://westportisland.us/news/broadband-committee-survey, contact Jason Kates, the chair of the committee, at 660-960-0070 or jason@kates.org, or use the committee email address: westportbroadband@gmail.com