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MAPA, in conjunction with the Nebraska Regional Officials Council (NROC), launched a statewide broadband speed testing initiative in February that will provide a clearer view of the gaps in internet services, speeds and access across the state.  NROC encourages every Nebraskan to take the one-minute speed test from any internet-enabled device, including cell phones.  As part of the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area, residents in Iowa’s Pottawattamie and Mills Counties are included in this testing initiative too.

Take the free test at speedtestne.org or nebraskaspeedtest.org.   Participation by everyone is essential. No personal information will be collected. Repeated speed tests by the same users are encouraged during the two-year initiative in order to better capture variations in internet speeds and collect more statistically valid data.

Speed data will provide decision makers a better understanding of where internet accessibility is limited or not available, and where speeds are not meeting the needs of today’s users. The purpose of the initiative is to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas. The captured information will provide statistically sound data that can be used by communities, counties, and key stakeholders as they plan for broadband infrastructure expansion or enhancement projects.

MAPA is one of development districts in the Nebraska Regional Officials Council and also provides community and economic development assistance in Pottawattamie and Mills Counties.  MAPA will be working with Mills and Pottawattamie Counties and their communities to review the data and identify priority areas and a phase plan for development to help get underserved or unserved areas covered.