Institute of Social and Economic Research, University of Alaska Anchorage
Abstract
The TERRA-Southwest project is extending broadband service to 65 communities in the
Bristol Bay, Bethel and Yukon-Kuskokwim regions. A stimulus project funded by a combination
of grants and loans from the Rural Utilities Service (RUS), TERRA-Southwest has installed a
middle-mile network using optical fiber and terrestrial microwave. Last-mile service will be
through fixed wireless or interconnection with local telephone networks.
The State of Alaska, through its designee Connect Alaska, also received federal stimulus
funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) for tasks
that include support for an Alaska Broadband Task Force “to both formalize a strategic broadband
plan for the state of Alaska and coordinate broadband activities across relevant agencies and
organizations.”
Thus, a study of the impact of the TERRA project in southwest Alaska is both relevant and
timely. This first phase provides baseline data on current access to and use of ICTs and Internet
connectivity in rural Alaska, and some insights about perceived benefits and potential barriers to
adoption of broadband. It is also intended to provide guidance to the State Broadband Task Force
in determining how the extension of broadband throughout the state could contribute to education,
social services, and economic activities that would enhance Alaska’s future. Results of the
research could also be used proactively to develop strategies to encourage broadband adoption,
and to identify applications and support needed by users with limited ICT skills.Connect Alaska.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration.
General Communications Incorporated.Part 1: An Analysis of Internet Use in Southwest Alaska / Introduction / Previous Studies / Current Connectivity / Analytical Framework and Research Methodology / Demographics / Mobile Phones: Access and Use / Access to the Internet / Internet Useage / Considerations about Internet Service / Interest in Broadband / Sources of News / Comparison with National Data / Internet Use by Businesses and Organizations / What Difference may Broadband make in the Region? / Conclusiongs / Part 2 Literature Review / Reference
