Gov. Chet Culver announced today the launch of Iowa’s first statewide broadband availability map.

Intended to ensure that all of Iowa’s rural and urban communities have access to the benefits associated with broadband, the BroadbandStat website will act as a portal for residents to find providers at their addresses, check their current Internet speeds, and request broadband service in their area.

The project is being funded by a $2.2 million federal stimulus grant and is guided by the Connect Iowa initiative.

Connect Iowa, which is charged with creating statewide awareness and mapping, as well as maintaining the state broadband inventory for two years, is a subsidiary of national nonprofit Connected Nation.

“Connect Iowa, in collaboration with the state’s broadband providers, will update the map on a routine basis to reflect real-time broadband availability so that policy-makers, Internet providers and the general public can use the maps to make informed decisions about broadband investment and expansion,” said Brian Mefford, CEO of Connected Nation.

Connected Nation said its goal is to expand broadband access to areas where it doesn’t exist and to improve the quality of service in areas that are already served. Medford said Iowa’s new map is the first major step on that process.

“Iowa has made great strides in spreading broadband across the state,” Culver said. “In fact, 177 broadband providers offered data showing that the vast majority of our citizens can access broadband. However, only 66 percent of residents report using broadband at home.”

The staff of Connect Iowa will present a detailed explanation of the BroadbandStat during a June 22 webinar. The media, broadband providers and the general public are invited to attend.

To register, gain full access to the map and offer feedback, go to www.connectiowa.org.