Broadband Study
Arlington County conducted a broadband study to better understand our community's internet use and broadband access. The study:
- assessed available broadband and digital inclusion resources,
- evaluated resident and business needs,
- explored broadband delivery models, and
- identified strategies for increasing broadband resources
The study is an educational tool intended to help Arlington select and implement appropriate solutions to address the County's digital divide and ensure adequate and affordable broadband access across the County.
Broadband Resource Evaluation and Needs Assessment
Addresses the current state of broadband and digital inclusion in Arlington County and assesses the federal, state, and local tactics and tools currently available and their ability to eliminate any gaps.
Report(PDF, 8MB) | Summary Slides(PDF, 1MB) | Recorded Presentation | Online Comment Form
Comparative Model Evaluation
Assessed four different approaches to internet service delivery, including considerations for costs, risks and challenges, and how well they each meet existing and future community needs.
Report(PDF, 2MB) (PDF, 2MB) | Summary Slides(PDF, 689KB)
Case Studies and Strategic Recommendations
Includes strategies and recommendations the County should consider. Also included are three case studies that highlight best practices related to key areas of research - governance and digital equity, municipal broadband intervention, and competition.
Report(PDF, 3MB) (PDF, 2MB)| Summary Slides(PDF, 2MB)
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific questions will the Broadband Study answer?
The countywide study will focus on answering the following questions:
- What is the extent and quality of broadband infrastructure in Arlington today?
- Do the available broadband resources meet the County’s current and future needs?
- What is the nature and extent of the unserved/underserved population (related to access, adoption, affordability, internet quality, digital literacy, and device needs)?
- What broadband speed is needed for long-term planning, and what is the most appropriate technology to facilitate the County’s needs?
- What infrastructure development and internet service delivery options should be pursued, given the County’s available resources, existing and future community needs, and costs?
The full study scope is outlined in the Request for Proposals.
What happens after the Broadband Study concludes?
Recommendations prepared by the consultants will be used administratively by staff, at the discretion of the County Manager, and may be used to inform future evaluation or to guide an implementation framework.