Bringing Broadband to the Central Sierra Foothills

Since 1981, the Amador-Tuolumne Community Action Agency (ATCAA) has been a leading community and human services provider in Amador and Tuolumne counties. Its mission is to provide critical services and self-sustaining opportunities for low-income residents in the region.

The long-term goal of ATCAA Central Sierra Connect is to make available ubiquitous broadband to all rural communities in the region through the aggregation of users, engagement of providers and potential users, simplification of county and municipal policies and outreach to the unserved members of the region.

The first year planning phase set the strategies, actions and desired specific outcomes that have helped define the next step of implementation. ATCAA additionally plans to apply to various sources, including the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, to fund subsequent outreach and engagement programs including implementation of a regional broadband-based 211/Information and Referral database system and regional telemedicine access.

This project has had a positive impact on the entire region by demonstrating business scenarios for broadband infrastructure investment. Expanded broadband accessibility will increase opportunities for business development, jobs, and access to quality health care and educational opportunities.