Economic Development & Planning
Pioneer Valley Connect
The Pioneer Valley Connect logo
Project Overview
Pioneer Valley Connect is a regional initiative with the mission to create a more competitive and robust telecommunications landscape in the three counties of the Pioneer Valley region. The purpose for greater access to broadband in traditionally underserved areas is to encourage economic development as well as promote improved communication systems for education, health care and public safety purposes. The effort is led by business and community leaders from Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden Counties. The FRCOG acts as co-chair of the Pioneer Valley Steering Committee and is staff to the effort.
Current Activities
Pioneer Valley Connect and its partner, Berkshire Connect, Inc., received a John Adams Innovation Institute award in 2006 for “Connecting Western Massachusetts.” This is the latest stage of the Connects’ effort to achieve the deployment of advanced, affordable broadband services into un-served and underserved areas of this region, through sound investment in new infrastructure that will serve the needs of the region today and in the future. Some of the activities being conducted through this award are the Connects Beta Test Program and the Regional Broadband Survey.
Future Plans
The Connects will continue to work closely with state and local partners to further the mission of creating a competitive and robust telecommunications landscape in Western Massachusetts. In October 2007, Governor Patrick’s Administration submitted bond bill legislation to establish the Massachusetts Broadband Institute and Incentive Fund. The Connects will continue to monitor the progress of this legislation and support its efficient and effective implementation for the benefit of Western Massachusetts.
Links
Learn more at the Pioneer Valley Connect website.
Page last updated on 12/18/2007 .