New group formed to improve state's Internet service

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — After six months in the making, Connect Alaska -- a new organization with the goal of improving and expanding high-speed Internet service across Alaska -- was launched Wednesday.

The non-profit organization is a subsidiary of Connected Nation, based in Washington, D.C., which was commissioned by the state to work with broadband providers to create the site and maps.

According to its creators, Connect Alaska is an economic development tool and could help Alaska in many ways.

“Without a good-quality connection to the rest of the world, it's very hard for people to remain living in their communities, especially in the most remote villages and towns across the state,” said Brent Legg, Connected Nation’s director of stakeholder relations and development.

Connect Alaska is asking for your feedback on its new website. The site has detailed maps of broadband coverage throughout the state, and the organization wants people to visit the site to see if the maps are accurate.

Contact Lori Tipton at ltipton@ktuu.com