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March 18, 2010

Internet access grant near complete

Monies could expand ‘net into rural areas

Nathan Straus CNHI

JACKSONVILLE —  Jacksonville officials and residents continue to anticipate expanded Internet access to the city.

Economic Development Corporation President Darrell Prcin brought a presentation to the city’s rotary club Wednesday on this very subject.

“The grant process will go in at the end of this month,” Prcin said. “Traylor and Associates is putting everything together, and by early April it will be submitted.”

He also said he expects the city will hear back on whether or not the grant request was approved by November.

“This will primarily give us WiFi,” Prcin added. “We could have an Internet connection in a very large foot print.”

The possible coverage area would stretch from close to Bullard to near Palestine and New Summerfield. Prcin said the proposal will be submitted along with the city of Rusk to enlarge the area even more. It’s a large portion of Cherokee County and would even spill into neighboring counties.

“You have a better chance of getting the grant if you have a larger footprint,” Prcin said.

City Manager Mo Raissi said this grant, if approved, will provide Internet capability for rural areas, areas around Lake Jacksonville and for some parts of the city itself which can’t get a good signal.

“It’s a very good tool to have,” Raissi said. “We can’t do it without this grant as the cost is too high.”

If approved and put into effect, Prcin said both individuals and businesses could sign up for the service and receive a USB card possibly distributed by the city.

“It will be the function of the city to have someone trained. The city would provide he USB adapter for wireless Internet,” he added.

The buildup to full Internet access, if approved, could last up to a year and a half. It will be done in conjunction with the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG), Prcin said.

He added ETCOG wants to put more Internet lines in East Texas and would provide much of the backbone for Jacksonville’s system if the city succeeds in receiving this grant.

“If we’re successful it gives us a pretty good economic edge in our ability to attract businesses,” Prcin said. “It’s another possible revenue source for the city.”

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