Macomb County is trying to help bridge the digital divide in the tri-county area, and it needs your help
Macomb County residents, along with those in Wayne and Oakland counties, are being asked to complete a 15-question survey about internet service in their households.
The survey asks whether high-speed “broadband” internet service is available at a given address, and at what speed.
The goal is to gain a clearer picture of connectivity in the tri-county area and support planning and possible broadband expansion efforts.
"Internet connectivity at home is an essential service no matter your demographic or where you choose to live," Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel said. 'From applying for jobs, to accessing social services, and even working from home, you need a strong broadband connection to really function in this day and age. So I am pleased to see this collaboration, with all three counties working to ensure no one in the metro area is left behind. Together we can make our region even stronger."
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for broadband has become more evident, with residents working remotely, students attending school online and patients meeting doctors virtually. County Commissioners from the three counties convened in 2022 to consider how to address resident frustration over internet connectivity. In some areas, high-speed internet is unreliable, unaffordable or simply not available.
The survey will provide accurate data regarding which properties have Internet access and the affordability if access is available. Information gathered will only be used to support broadband Internet expansion efforts and will aid in seeking grant funding to increase broadband availability in the Tri-County area
It is important to get this data and feedback from our citizens because they know their experience and challenges better than we do,” added Community Planning Project Manager John Culcasi. “We are partnering with them through this survey so that we become better informed. Their feedback will directly impact infrastructure planning as well as access to important funding opportunities that will help build out and develop the infrastructure that they need in order to have that quality of life for their family, to make where they live more connected, and to support the businesses in connecting to necessary and essential internet services.”
Completing this survey should take five minutes or less. Any information submitted will not be sold, but may be used in planning to expand access opportunities with government and local partners. We understand that you may not have all the necessary information to answer each question on this survey, please answer to the best of your ability.
If you are taking the survey on a smartphone or wireless device and have access to wireless internet, be sure your device is using your wifi connection while taking the survey.
You may take the survey over SMS/text message by texting @MOON to 1-888-613-1746. To request a paper survey, contact 313-625-0029.