Delta Regional Authority Launches Delta Broadband Mapping Project to Support Increased Access to Digital Infrastructure in West Tennessee

The free, anonymous Delta Speed Test will measure internet capabilities; detect areas lacking access and affordability.

CLARKSDALE, MS – The Delta Regional Authority (DRA) announced today the launch of the Delta Broadband Mapping Project, an initiative aimed at strengthening broadband infrastructure that supports telehealth, distance learning, and remote work throughout the 252 counties and parishes of the eight-state DRA region.

The initiative encourages residents to participate in the free, anonymous Delta Speed Test, conducted through an innovative crowd-sharing platform that collects and analyzes data in real-time. The gathered information will inform and support strategic investments in critical infrastructure that will expand the availability of high-quality internet access across the region.

“Broadband is an essential infrastructure that is often lacking, especially in rural areas of the Delta region,” said DRA Spokeswoman Shawna Blair. “The Delta Broadband Mapping Project allows our state partners to accurately identify digital divides and ultimately obtain state and federal resources dedicated to broadband expansion projects. In less than one minute, Tennesseans can take the Delta Speed Test and help state and local leaders understand the internet capabilities within their communities.”

West Tennessee residents are encouraged to participate in the Delta Speed Test by visiting dra.gov/speedtest. In addition to seeing their own upload and download speeds, participants will help policymakers identify gaps in high-quality, affordable internet access in the region.

"We are committed to getting every corner of Tennessee connected but that depends on partnership and quality data,” said Governor Bill Lee. “I encourage Tennesseans to participate in the Delta Speed Test so we build the strongest possible broadband infrastructure to effectively serve Tennesseans."

The Delta Speed Test can be taken from any device that has an internet or cellular connection to your home Wi-Fi signal. The test takes less than one minute to complete, and no personal information will be collected. To participate, a device must be connected to your home internet service and disconnected from a virtual private network (VPN) that may be connected to a workplace or school. For the most accurate results, ensure that no one else connected to your home internet is using a substantial portion of the internet bandwidth for activities such as streaming video or gaming during the test.

Individuals without internet access in their home can visit their local library or other locations such as stores and restaurants that offer free internet access to submit the address of a home with no available service.

DRA is partnering with geospatial engineering firm GEO Partners LLC to obtain actionable data.

To see images of the Delta Speed Test in progress, visit dra.gov/research/broadband-mapping/.

For more information about the Delta Broadband Mapping Project, visit dra.gov/speedtest.