Staying connected is crucial during these uncertain times. We are relying more and more on things like video chatting, distance learning, virtual appointments, online commerce and so much more for work, school, health, entertainment and just generally staying in touch.
All this connectivity relies on strong wireless networks, something AT&T is committed to providing throughout the state. And as new research shows, a poll of likely Connecticut voters showed strong support for the upgrade and enhancement of the state’s wireless networks.
A recently conducted poll throughout Connecticut asked likely voters on their attitudes about wireless connectivity, 5G, and their use of such technology during the COVID-19 pandemic.1 Voters polled strongly support efforts by government officials and the telecom industry to enhance wireless networks across the state.
Key findings showed that Connecticut voters believe quality wireless connectivity is a priority. Respondents also overwhelmingly believe it is important that they, their families, and the community institutions they rely on have quality wireless service and support the associated infrastructure improvements. The survey clearly demonstrated the vast majority of Connecticut voters – and voters in Fairfield County, in particular – support efforts and infrastructure to enhance wireless networks, including upgrades to 5G.
Some specific data showed:
- More than 3 out of 4 people support infrastructure improvements to enhance wireless networks and bring high-speed, high-capacity wireless technology to their area;
- 94% believe it is important to have quality wireless service in their home;
- 97% believe it is important for hospitals, schools, businesses and local government to utilize high-speed wireless services;
- 67% want faster download speeds and more capacity to use more devices;
- 62% agree we should continue to bring high-speed broadband to our communities.
The data also showed how COVID-19 has highlighted the current and future need for high-speed, reliable wireless connectivity. Quality wireless connectivity has been a positive and crucial tool during the COVID-19 public health crisis, enabling Connecticuters to engage in important education and personal health-related activity and services. They also believe the need for quality connectivity will continue, and AT&T is committed to bringing the network upgrades that will serve communities’ connectivity needs.
How important is connectivity? Consider the following poll data:
- 91% said it was important for their family to have reliable, high speed internet connectivity during the COVID-19 crisis;
- 76% said their data usage greatly or somewhat increased during the COVID-19 crisis, while 81% believe their data usage will either remain at this elevated level or increase even further going forward;
- More than half of respondents relied upon online technologies for healthcare or education services.
When it comes to the future of wireless connectivity in the region, the data is strong. Specifically, voters believe that efforts to improve wireless networks and wireless infrastructure (such as towers and small cells) must be continued, which requires continued collaboration between public officials and companies like AT&T. Additionally, they feel that the COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the importance of projects to improve wireless connectivity. There is a notable anticipation for a continued shift to online services like distance learning and telehealth, which emphasizes just how critical it is for network improvements to be made.
At the same time, this data also puts to rest any notion of widespread opposition to wireless network enhancements or 5G. Numerous international and national scientific, public health and government regulation agencies have affirmed there are no quantifiable adverse health effects from radio frequency energy and wireless networks and devices, including current 4G and new 5G services and devices, operating at or below the FCC limits. This is clearly underscored by the overwhelming support for such infrastructure projects among the Connecticut electorate.2
We hear you. Know that AT&T is committed to working with state and local governments in order to enhance our network, the infrastructure and keep pace with growing data needs.
1 RABA Research conducted a poll of 742 likely voters throughout Connecticut (including an over sample of 337 voters from Fairfield County) from June 15-22, 2020
