Residents, businesses urged to take county broadband survey

SCRANTON — Lackawanna County officials are asking residents and businesses to take a brief broadband survey and speed test as part of a broader effort to bolster access to reliable, high-speed internet.

It’s specifically part of the Lackawanna County Broadband Assessment Plan study being conducted by the engineering and consulting firm HRG, “a multifaceted project that will collect data and feedback over the course of several months to identify broadband service needs and focus future efforts on expanding internet service,” per the county.

The final study and report will outline findings and proposed next steps “with the long-term goal of ensuring reliable high-speed internet is available to everyone in the county.”

The HRG-administered survey and speed test, open through July 13, will inform that work.

Residents and businesses are asked to take the survey and speed test using the wired or Wi-Fi connection serving their home or business. They shouldn’t use their mobile phone data plan, as doing so won’t measure broadband speed. A link is available on the homepage of the county’s website, lackawannacounty.org.

Prospective survey-takers can also download a printable version, or request a copy by mail or email by contacting internetsurvey@lackawannacounty.org. Paper copies are also available at local libraries, municipal buildings and at the county government center in downtown Scranton, officials said.

Commissioners Bill Gaughan and Chris Chermak voted in July to award HRG a two-year, $156,300 contract for the broadband planning project.

“HRG understands that Lackawanna County is seeking to develop a county-wide broadband assessment plan to characterize unserved and underserved areas, develop a technological approach to address coverage gaps, and present cost scenarios for future broadband deployment,” the firm noted in its 2025 proposal. “HRG understands the importance of this project for ensuring economic sustainability and future growth in the County while also addressing current business, residential, and educational needs. To meet the requirements of the County, current and future broadband infrastructure must be reliable and affordable.”

A cover sheet submitted with last year’s legislation authorizing the HRG contract described the broadband venture as a “fact-finding endeavor” that should help the county secure funding for projects bolstering broadband infrastructure, including the expansion of its existing wireless network.