Chamber seeks input on study of broadband service needs

Reliable broadband voice and data service is essential in today's marketplace, where businesses rely daily on high-speed communications networks to accommodate their technology needs.

Broadband service is also essential to Connecticut's, and southeastern Connecticut's, continued economic development. Tony Sheridan, president and chief executive officer of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut, said Friday the state of Connecticut had received federal stimulus funding to create a "Strategic Plan for Accessibility to and Adoption of Broadband Services."

As a result, the Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering, or CASE, was commissioned to conduct a study for the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority and Connecticut's Office of Consumer Counsel. The study is designed to provide guidance for state officials to use as they formulate a strategic plan for broadband service.

The regional chamber, based in Waterford, will host a briefing on Tuesday, Feb. 14, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at its headquarters at 914 Hartford Turnpike to let interested business leaders and officials know the findings and recommendations from the report. In addition, the chamber briefing will solicit feedback on the issue for officials studying the issue.

For information about the regional chamber briefing on broadband service, send an email to Meghan Akeman, manager of program and events, at makeman@chamberect.com or call the chamber at (860) 701-9113.

a.cronin@theday.com

IF YOU GO

Event: Broadband briefing

When: Tuesday, Feb. 14

Where: Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut, 914 Hartford Turnpike (Route 85), Waterford.

Time: 8:30 to 10 a.m.

Telephone: (860) 701-9113

Website: www.ChamberECT.com

Chamber seeks input on study of broadband service needs