Centre County leaders urge residents to join challenge checking accuracy of broadband map

Centre County commissioners urged residents Tuesday to participate in a national broadband survey.

The Federal Communications Commission’s broadband map for the first time shows service availability at physical locations, Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel wrote last month. The FCC is accepting challenges to the map’s information until midnight Friday.

The map will help determine future funding for broadband in Centre County, commissioners said in a statement. “Without your input, realizing broadband to our communities most in-need will be delayed.”

Centre County residents can search for their address on the map at broadbandmap.gov. You’ll find a list of internet providers that have reported they can offer service at that location. If the information is incorrect, complete the form that appears after you click “Availability Challenge.”

If your address is missing from the map entirely, click on the spot where it should be and fill out the form that appears after you choose “Challenge Location.”

Centre County leaders said that most residents who search for their address will find that their location is displayed as being adequately served. To ensure the most accurate response, residents should click on the settings selection filter — it’s on the right side of the screen and looks like a gear. “Please choose a minimum internet speed of at least 25/3 Mbps or greater and all wired and licensed fixed wireless technology options to filter your results before making an availability challenge,” commissioners said.

An instructional video and guide are available at the county government website, centrecountypa.gov, under “News and Announcements.” Those with questions or requests for assistance can email broadband@centrecountypa.gov.

“We respectfully urge you to complete the individual challenge for the FCC’s National Broadband Map,” commissioners said. “The time is now.”