Could high-speed internet, cell service soon be improved in Bedford County?

BEDFORD COUNTY, Pa. (WJAC) — Multiple residents of Bedford say -- that in many parts of the county -- spotty cell service and poor internet connection is the norm.

Bedford County Emergency Services Director Alex Delia says that can be dangerous in worst case scenarios.

"There is a plethora of dead spots within the county that affect public safety -- because as you can probably surmise -- in the event that somebody is in a car wreck or has a medical emergency, in an area of no coverage, they can’t contact us," Delia told 6 News.

In a letter sent out to some property owners from the Bedford County Commissioners on August 11th, improvements might be in the works.

The County of Bedford is anticipating leasing land for installation of self-supporting communications towers and associated radio transmitter and receiving facilities, buildings to enclose electronic equipment, cables and electrical lines, pole lines, fencing and other structures and improvements, to enable high-speed internet and other communications capabilities in underserved areas of the County," the letter read.

"It allows for better communication with both the patients, victims, or what have you, as well as better communication and better dealings with our actual emergency services who are dispatching," Delia told 6 News.

Connection issues don't only affect emergency services within Bedford County, but also local businesses.

LIFeSTYLE along East Pitt Street in Downtown Bedford is a restaurant that also distributes imported products from Italy.

Co-Owner Davide Ferrari says their business requires extensive internet and digital services to get the job done.

When it comes to business, it is really poor. It's been a constant issue over the years. We've had internet down multiple times," Ferrari told 6 News.

Comments on the Bedford County Free Press Facebook Page -- where the letter was posted -- shows mixed reactions from users.

One person writes, "It's the eminent domain part. You work for what you have then someone gets to take it. We have no property rights. It's really sad."

On the other hand, another said, "This is probably not just because of high-speed internet but to improve fire and EMS communication in our area that are severely lacking."

The positives of being able to increase cellular service within the county are very immediate and very forthcoming, which is we can simply be in contact with people who need it, when they need it," Delia told 6 News.

Bedford County Commissioner Deb Baughman said this will be discussed further at their monthly Commissioners Meeting in September.

6 News also reached out to the Bedford Area School District for comment but have not heard back.

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