Merski urges Erie residents to review FCC broadband map by Jan. 13 deadline

Will be used by state broadband commission to deliver funding for unserved areas


ERIE, Dec. 21 – State Rep. Bob Merski is encouraging residents and small business owners to review the map that the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority will be using to deliver funding for high-speed internet services to unserved or underserved areas of the state.

Merski, D-Erie, said it is important for residents to review the map, which was created by the Federal Communications Commission, to ensure that funding gets to areas where those high-speed connections are lacking.

“The state Broadband Development Authority will be using the FCC map to determine where funding for high-speed internet is needed,” Merski said. “But the map is only as accurate as the information the FCC receives. I’m urging Erie residents and business owners to review the map to ensure that it accurately reflects whether high-speed service is available in their location. If the map says high-speed internet is available but it isn’t, they should file a challenge.

“It's an important step we can all take to make sure funding is distributed where it is needed. The deadline for making a challenge is January 13, so folks need to review the map soon. Visit
www.RepMerski.com and click on the link titled “FCC Broadband Map review & challenge” for instructions.

Merski said residents with questions should call his office at 814-455-6319.  A video of Merski urging residents to review the map is available here.