The City of Port Huron is taking a survey to gauge the interest in broadband internet service throughout downtown.
Jazmyn Thomas, Community Development Program Administrator, said that Port Huron has Block Grant funding from the federal government that could be used to fund the broadband project.
Thomas explained that eligible projects must have a COVID tieback and benefit low to moderate-income persons. The universal broadband service downtown would allow people to use pocket parks, public meeting areas, or their vehicles to get work done and allow for social distancing.
If the broadband project happens, Thomas said Port Huron would be pioneering the effort as no other community has used the federal block grants in such a way.
Downtown Development Director Natacha Hayden said, “The pandemic compelled a high need for quality broadband services for essential things like work and school in many communities.” Hayden pointed out the challenges with connectivity that can happen with such close proximity to the Canadian border.
City of Port Huron Broadband Internet Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2WQJRBV
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
