Page 14 - Texas811

What is Broadband?
Insights from the Texas Broadband Development Office
Interviewer: John Sparks, Director of Damage Prevention & Marketing, Texas811
Guests: Gregory Conte, Lauren Wieber, and Chris Bryan, Texas BroadbanAd Development Office (BDO)
ccording to the Oxford Dictionary, broadband is “a high-capacity transmission technique using a wide
range of frequencies, which enables
a large number of messages to be communicated simultaneously.” In simpler terms, broadband is the transmission of high-quality data over a wide bandwidth. It is essentially a high- speed internet connection that is always on, encompassing various types of connections such as Wi-Fi, DSL, fiber, and satellites.
In a recent interview hosted by Texas811, John Sparks sat down with key figures from the Texas Broadband Development Office (BDO): Gregory Conte, Lauren Wieber, and Chris Bryan.
The discussion centered on the role of the BDO and its efforts to enhance broadband access across Texas.
The Broadband Development Office was created in 2021 by the 87th Legislative Session in the wake of
the COVID-19 pandemic. Its primary mission is to bridge the digital divide in Texas by expanding and enhancing broadband access. Here’s a closer look at the BDO’s core responsibilities:
1. Mapping Broadband Availability: The BDO is tasked with creating and maintaining an accurate map that depicts broadband availability at
each broadband-serviceable location across Texas. This map is crucial for identifying underserved areas and directing resources where they are most needed.
2. Statewide Planning: The office
develops a comprehensive, long-term plan that outlines strategies and goals for expanding broadband access and increasing adoption rates. This plan
is designed to ensure that all Texans, regardless of their location, have access to reliable internet services.
12 • Texas811
2024, Issue 3
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