Broadband Division

Garrett County Government is committed to expanding rural broadband connectivity to its citizens and businesses throughout the county. 

What is broadband? In its simplest form, broadband means "high speed internet."  The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) defines broadband capability as requiring consumers to have access to actual download speeds of at least 25 Mbps (Megabits per second) and actual upload speeds of at least 3 Mbps.  Some federal grant funding requires broadband capabilities of 100 Mbps symmetrical service (100 Mbps download and 100 Mbps upload).  

The goal is for all Garrett County residents and businesses to have access to and use of information and communication technologies. Currently around 6,000 addresses still lack access to high speed internet. The county continues to seek and apply for funding to help all area Internet Service Providers to expand their service areas to include unserved addresses in Garrett County. From finding funding for middle mile expansion projects to assisting with infrastructure extensions to businesses and homes, the County remains committed to helping Internet Service Providers reach the remaining unserved customers in the county.

The county first worked to connect our critical infrastructure (schools, hospital, county services, etc.) and then started working on broader broadband issues, targeting business, organization and residential access. An original Document feasibility study (8.01 MB) was completed in 2012. The study concluded that a public-private partnership using fixed wireless technology (TV White Space (TVWS) and other unlicensed spectrum) is the best solution for the rugged, remote areas of Garrett County. The County partnered with a private Internet Service Provider to deploy this project. Learn more

A more recent updated study assessed the addresses still in need of service as well as suggested efforts to reach those addresses. The Document Garrett County Broadband Plan Table of Contents and Recommendations 2022 (392.94 KB) and full Document Garrett County Broadband Plan - Full 2022 (4.16 MB) were completed in 2022.

Connected Devices Program

Households in Garrett County meeting the income guidelines can receive a free Google Chromebook (one per address, Maryland residents only). 

Broadband Service Information Portal

Share internet service information with the county to help identify areas in need of new or additional broadband infrastructure. You can share information about where you cannot get internet service or provide us with information about your existing connection.  Please call 301-914-1543 if you are unable to access the portal link by clicking the picture below.  


Garrett County is a National Digital Inclusion Alliance Affiliate Member, committed to digital inclusion.