Whitman County BAT team asks for residents assistance

COLFAX — The Whitman County Broadband Action Team (BAT) encourages residents to help improve the newly released Federal Communications Commission (FCC) National Broadband Map.

Users can search their address to see information about services that internet service providers claim are available there. If those services are unavailable at the user’s location, they may file a challenge with the FCC through the map interface to correct the information. Map users will also be able to correct information about their location and add their location to the map if it is missing.

Those with poor or no access to the internet are invited to visit one of the fourteen Whitman County Rural Library District locations in Albion, Colfax, Colton, Endicott, Farmington, Garfield, LaCrosse, Malden, Oakesdale, Palouse, Rosalia, St. John, Tekoa and Uniontown. Instructions are available at each of these library locations, and library staff are available to assist patrons with accessing the FCC map.

“Internet access and broadband connectivity are crucial factors in the lives of every person in Whitman County. It is imperative the citizens take a look at these maps and let the FCC know if they find a problem, because if they do, we may be able to receive funds to help improve connectivity in our county,” said Whitman County Rural Library District Director Cody Allen, “The Port of Whitman County, Whitman County Broadband Action Team, and Whitman County Rural Library District are committed to bridging the digital divide and helping get every person in Whitman County access to a strong, reliable internet connection as well as the skills to navigate this digital realm. The library is pleased to offer Digital Navigation assistance and training at all of our branches, and hope that people all over the county make use of our resources.

Whitman County residents are also able to use the FCC’s Speed Test App , to compare their network’s performance to that reported by their provider. The app, updated on Nov. 18, allows users to submit their speed test data in support of a challenge to a wireless service provider’s claimed coverage. Users can download the FCC Speed Test App in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.