In his continuing efforts to improve broadband access for residents and businesses across Fort Bend County, Pct. 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers participated in the Houston-Galveston Area Council’s (H-GAC) Broadband Summit on April 20.

“Faster and more reliable access to the Internet is critical for our ability to compete economically, for students to learn and access information, for seniors to take advantage of telehealth options and so much more,” Meyers said. “Broadband access is no longer a luxury, it’s an important part of our modern infrastructure just as mobility, power and water are.”

Fort Bend County was well represented with Chief Information Officer Robyn Doughtie as a featured panelist who spoke about the need to provide broadband in rural areas and upgraded infrastructure in older, more densely populated subdivisions.

Federal, state, and local experts were on hand to review sources of funding and efforts for expanding broadband access as well as adoption across the Region. Doughtie highlighted the importance of cooperation between all counties in finding regional solutions that makes broadband available to as many people as possible.

For 25 years as a committee chair and member of H-GAC’s board, Meyers led collaborative efforts with area elected officials and other partners to solve regional problems. By participating in the Summit and continuing to engage with H-GAC counterparts on broadband and other priorities Meyers is focused on delivering solutions to address constituents’ needs.

“An important theme at this summit was addressing the digital divide in our communities and the work ahead to address digital equity and literacy,” Meyers said. “It was a great session to effectively exchange ideas on ways to plan and better prepare for the investments ahead in broadband infrastructure in our communities,” Meyers said.