| The way to get high-speed telecommunications for all of Bainbridge Island is to prove the need for it. And that is what the Bainbridge Economic Council (BEC) wants to do — if it can raise enough money for an appropriate survey.
The survey will cost $17,000. BEC has $7,000 so far, according to Winie Jones, president of BEC, and is looking for support from local businesses or other organizations which could benefit from improved service.
The BEC contracted with the Field Company, a Bainbridge Island business, to develop and conduct a survey to show the level of demand for island-wide high-speed broad-band telecommunications.
“We need to determine the size of the market and the needs of the market. Without that we can’t move ahead,” Jones said.
BEC will present the findings to the city and telecommunication providers.
“We know from anecdotal information that many people say they want that service,” said Christopher Snow, BEC member, “but we need a statically valid survey to prove the demand is great enough for Qwest (or another provider) to commit resources to extend the service island-wide.”
High-speed service can benefit existing businesses, encourage future small and home-based businesses, and improve personal internet usage, said Jack MacArthur, executive director of the Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce. If the island wants to support its existing business community or expand it, he said, supporting the survey and then participating in it is critical.
“If everyone had access to high speed telecommunication service,” Jones said. “it would reduce traffic because more people could stay at home to work. Many people don’t realize how powerful the high-speed service can be. It isn’t even on their radar screens.”
High-speed service is currently available in limited areas of the island, mostly near downtown Winslow.
Anyone interested in supporting the survey to expand electronic communication capabilities on the island may call Winie Jones at 842-7603. | 