The county of San Bernardino secured a national award for its innovation in expanding broadband service. The National Association of Counties (NACo) recognized the county's initiative to leverage the power of Starlink's satellite technology to bring high-speed internet to Yucaipa and Prado regional parks, according to official county statements.
The move was a game-changer for areas that once contended with patchy cell coverage and non-existent broadband. San Bernardino County officials were determined to quickly resolve this digital disconnect. They turned to Starlink, a service known for bridging the internet gap in remote corners of the globe, as reported by the county's website.
Starlink's satellite internet service, with its global coverage to over one million locations, has transformed the park experience for visitors and staff alike. According to a statement from Dawn Rowe, Chair of the Board of Supervisors, "The lack of internet access and cell phone coverage at those parks presented many barriers to providing quality service to park guests."
Commending the installation of Starlink, Regional Parks Director Beahta Davis highlighted the positive impact on campers and event attendees, saying, "This creative technology has strengthened park patrons' experience while attending events or enjoying other outdoor recreation activities". The county is set to keep pushing boundaries, aiming to deploy Starlink to other challenging locations within its jurisdiction.
