April 1 - June 30, 2013
Broadband Mapping:
- Submitted availability, middle mile and Community Anchor Institution (CAI) data to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) on April 1.
- Updated state wireline and wireless availability maps and the online Massachusetts Broadband Map.
- Updated CAI data with new locations and subscription information.
- Performed address maintenance application testing and continued development of a broadband analysis website.
Broadband Planning:
- Continued to distribute and collect baseline inventory surveys from CAIs and organize meetings with western MA municipalities to discuss the potential impact of the MassBroadband 123 fiber network to achieve community objectives.
- Updated information received from Internet Service Providers seeking to use the MassBroadband 123 network that will help municipally-based CAIs obtain and compare broadband provider services and prices.
Veterans’ Web Portal:
-
Added 5 new programs and benefits for a total of 401. The site had over 6,400 unique visitors this quarter, 70% new users.
- Participated in a panel discussion with former Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray and a training seminar with Congressman Jim McGovern.
- Hosted a one year anniversary event and training session at Veterans Inc. in Shrewsbury, including keynote speaker Secretary John Polanowicz, MA Executive Office of Health and Human Services.
- Selected consultant to conduct a performance evaluation of the project.
- Showcased MassVetsAdvisor at 20 Veterans' events, including Memorial Day events.
Community Development Corporation (CDC) Grants:
-
Dorchester Bay CDC executed remaining 2 agreements and is implementing all 13 projects.
- Quaboag Valley CDC awarded remaining grant funds to 12 additional organizations totaling approximately $64,000 and is implementing the original 5 projects.
- Pittsfield CDC executed and begun work on all 8 agreements.
- New Bedford CDC awarded 4 businesses totaling approximately $18,500.