Charlevoix County To Get Certification As Connected Community

CHARLEVOIX -- On Wednesday, Aug. 22, Charlevoix County will receive the nation's first certification as a "connected community" from Connected Nation.

The Connected Community Engagement Program, managed in Michigan by  Connect Michigan, supports the building of a comprehensive action plan for a "connected" community by reviewing the technology landscape, developing regional partnerships, establishing local teams, and conducting a thorough community assessment of broadband access, adoption, and use.

The Charlevoix Broadband Action Plan that will be presented Aug. 22 includes results of a months long assessment undertaken by the Charlevoix County Community Engagement Team. It also contains specific recommendations of projects to expand digital literacy, build awareness for the benefits of broadband, and assist businesses with Web sites and social media, and improving the online presence of local governments, among others. Achieving status of Connected certification affords a community an avenue to discuss its success and pursue opportunities as a recognized, technologically advanced community.

The presentation will take place at 10 a.m. Aug. 22 at Boyne City High School.

As the designated entity for broadband mapping and planning in the state of Michigan, Connect Michigan is a public-private partnership between the Michigan Public Service Commission and Connected Nation to work with local governments, businesses, and citizens in the goal of increasing broadband service in the state's underserved areas.

For more information about what Connect Michigan is doing to accelerate technology in Michigan's communities, visit www.connectmi.org.