Maine is the most rural state in the nation, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention, with 50% of its land area is almost completely uninhabited. That makes it difficult to deliver certain modern amenities to its residents, namely high-speed internet access.
Why has Internet Access Historically Been So Limited in Maine?
There are many factors working against Mainers when it comes to internet connectivity. Its heavily forested landscape and swampy expanses make for tough terrain when installing necessary infrastructure, and the low population density that many of us enjoy leaves Internet Service Providers (ISPs) hesitant to tackle the challenge of keeping that infrastructure up to date.
Bridging the “Digital Divide”
Fortunately, recent federal and state programs have stimulated a push to establish broadband internet access across the Pine Tree State. Back in 2021, Governor Janet Mills’ office created the Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA), which has sought to bridge the digital divide and provide broadband internet access to every Mainer across the state.
Why is Internet Access so Important?
While some may still consider internet access a luxury; the fact is, in our modern world, internet access is becoming more of a necessity. Many have begun to view the internet as less of a frivolous amenity and more of a public utility like drinking water, electricity, or sewage disposal.
That comes as no surprise, as more of our world continues to migrates toward digital exclusivity. Many barriers to important tasks can be lifted by simply having reliable access to the internet.
Internet Access Means Access to Healthcare
Rural communities have historically seen less access to necessary healthcare. Many of those living in Maine know all too well the difficulty of having to drive long distances just to receive regular medical care. However, thanks to the increased popularity of remote healthcare appointments (usually known as Telehealth), receiving routine medical care has become easier than ever in rural communities. That is, if there’s access to reliable internet.
Better Internet Equals Better Citizens
Civic engagement, community events, and municipal government are Americans’ access points to their state and federal elected officials. Quality internet access offers a great chance for citizens to stay informed as to what decisions their legislative leaders are making and help hold those in power accountable for their action. While national and state legislative meetings have long been broadcast across the airwaves and through cyberspace, local and municipal governments have been following suit as internet access becomes more widespread.
Internet Connection is Connection to Loved Ones
It seems like the world is growing smaller every day. Today it’s much more common than it once was for our family members and loved ones to set down roots further and further away from their original homes. However, it’s also much easier to stay connected with distant friends and relatives than ever before. Video calls – once considered a campy sci-fi trope – have now become a ubiquitous part of communicating with loved ones from afar. This is, again, thanks to ever improving internet technology and connectivity.
That’s not to mention the recent boom in employees who are able to work from home. In a state which has historically been known as a desert for employment, the ability to work remotely has attracted many new residents who value the state’s reputation for peace and quiet but would not have been able to find employment here before.
What has Maine done to increase internet access?
The State of Maine has expanded its infrastructure and begun to offer more options to rural residents. Today there are more opportunities to get connected than ever before, with the MCA hoping to connect the entire state by the end of 2024.
Just last week the MCA announced plans to provide Low Earth Orbit satellite internet access options for certain locations across rural Maine. According to a recent Bangor Daily News article, the MCA’s Working Internet ASAP program hopes to distribute Starlink brand satellite dishes to nearly 9,000 homes and businesses without internet access.
However, satellite internet is only one of the many options for internet service Mainers have these days, and much of the state now offers high speed options including coaxial cable connections, as well as blazing fast fiber optic internet lines.
It’s Time to Reconsider What a Life in Maine Would Look Like
Have you been hesitant to move to Maine because of its historical lack of connectivity? If so, it’s time to reconsider. You can visit the Maine Office of the Public Advocate’s website to learn about what types of broadband internet service are available here or visit the Federal Communications Commission’s broadband map to see what internet services are available where.
So, leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind – without leaving behind the modern comforts. You’ll find that life here is the way it should be: only now with internet access. Contact us now for available listings!