Press Release: Tazewell County Broadband Feasibility Study Launches Survey 

Tazewell County Broadband Feasibility Study Launches Survey 

Countywide Survey Launched to Address Urgent Broadband Needs and Utilize Historic Federal Funding 

Peoria, IL (Monday, August 5, 2024)— Greater Peoria Economic Development Council (GPEDC) and Tazewell County have partnered with Finley Engineering and CCG, nationally recognized broadband consulting firms, to conduct a comprehensive Broadband Feasibility Study. Together Finley Engineering and CCG Consulting have more combined experience assisting the widest variety of broadband operators build FTTH broadband networks.. As part of this initiative, a countywide survey has been launched to gather essential data from residents. The survey results will be used to ensure that today’s historic levels of federal funding are used to address Tazewell County’s most urgent broadband barriers and needs.  

The potential of telehealth to revolutionize healthcare is undeniable. However, families without internet access are currently unable to benefit from this transformative technology. Expanding the broadband infrastructure is imperative to ensure equitable access to telehealth services across the county. Furthermore, improving broadband access aligns with our community’s broader vision, encompassing various sectors such as community and economic development, education, civic engagement, healthcare, agriculture, and more.

According to Kathie Brown, the Director of Rural Development and Outreach for GPEDC, “The survey’s goal is to gain a greater understanding of community interest and the need for enhanced internet service throughout Tazewell County. It will provide valuable documentation of the demand and interest among households and businesses throughout Tazewell County for expanded broadband infrastructure.”

The study is being funded by Just Transition Fund pilot programming initiative to expand broadband infrastructure in rural areas  and Tazewell County Energy Transition funds. It serves as a critical tool for collecting data and documentation that will inform future planning efforts. The insights derived from the survey results will help identify priority areas for broadband development based on the expressed needs and interests of the participants. The findings will be shared with communities, local government officials, and Internet Service Providers to foster collaborative efforts.

David Zimmerman, Chairperson of the Tazewell County Board, emphasized the significance of internet access in today’s world, stating, “In 2024, internet access is not merely a convenience; it is an essential part of everyday life. Having reliable broadband access greatly impacts the quality of life, and ensuring its availability throughout Tazewell County is crucial for attracting and retaining residents. Our aim throughout the broadband planning process is not only to gauge interest and engagement but also to create a comprehensive plan that expedites broadband deployment and facilitates public-private partnerships necessary to secure available federal and state funding for broadband infrastructure.”

All residents and businesses located in Tazewell County are encouraged to participate and voice their needs. To access the survey, please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3LQS8YY  and/or https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3LZZPQJ  to share your home and business needs.

About the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council

The Greater Peoria Economic Development Council (GPEDC) is a regional economic development organization covering the Greater Peoria area spanning five counties in central Illinois: Logan, Mason, Peoria, Tazewell, and Woodford. The GPEDC’s mission is to promote economic development in the region through its six core programs which are Business Attraction, Business Assistance, Workforce Solutions, Innovation and Startups, Rural Development, and the development and promotion of a regional Manufacturing Network.

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