I am pleased to announce an initiative involving the collaboration of the towns of Stockbridge, Great Barrington, Sheffield, West Stockbridge, Lee, and Lenox. This collective effort, undertaken in partnership with the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) and the Massachusetts Broadband Institute, is geared towards addressing the pressing concerns of residents regarding internet access, affordability, and adoption.

At the heart of this endeavor is the statewide initiative known as Internet for All, a comprehensive program with the overarching goal of ensuring that every individual, irrespective of their geographical location or economic status, has the means to actively participate in the economic, educational, health, and civic opportunities presented by our ever-evolving digital landscape.

Over the forthcoming months, the staff of BRPC will be immersed in community engagement efforts, conducting public meetings, facilitating focus groups, and conducting interviews throughout Southern Berkshire County. This multi-faceted approach is designed to cultivate a profound understanding of the nuanced local needs and opportunities concerning digital connectivity, accessibility, affordability, and literacy.

The fruit of these endeavors will be a municipal digital equity plan, a strategic blueprint that BRPC will collaboratively draft with us and our neighboring towns. This plan is not only aimed at addressing the immediate concerns of our communities but also strategically positions us to access historic levels of funding made available by both state and federal governments. The funding is specifically earmarked to bridge the digital divide, with a heightened focus on rural communities that often face unique challenges in this regard.

To ensure the success of Stockbridge in this initiative, residents are strongly encouraged to actively participate in the this Internet for All survey. By sharing your insights, you contribute to the identification of Stockbridge’s unique digital needs, ultimately shaping the course of this groundbreaking project.

For those seeking additional information or with specific queries, please feel free to contact BRPC Community Planner Andrew McKeever at amckeever@berkshireplanning.org. Your engagement in this initiative is crucial, as we collectively work towards a more digitally inclusive and connected future for our community.