UPPER MARLBORO, MD – The Prince George’s County government’s Institution Network was awarded the 2008 Community Broadband Network of the Year Award during the 28th National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors Annual Conference.

The broadband network, which is administered from the county’s Office of Information Technology received the prestigious award in honor of its accomplishments for connecting the county, more than 20 municipalities, numerous schools, and first responders over fiber optics; for serving government and educational needs over the network; and for demonstrating how communications technology can enhance government services, save on government expenditures, and save energy. The award was presented to OITC Director Tanya Gott during the associations 2008 conference held Sept. 16 through 21 in Atlanta.

“It is with great pride that I commend and congratulate the Office of Information Technology Director Tanya Gott and her staff for their tireless efforts and the hard work everyone invested in implementing the County’s I-Net,” said Prince George’s County Executive Jack Johnson.  “We strive to be on the cutting edge of technology to better serve the residents and citizens of Prince George’s County. This award certainly exemplifies that we are achieving high marks in this crucial area.”

“It is an honor to receive this award.  We are working hard to expand the government’s use of technology beyond traditional internal government needs to include services to the community,” said Tanya Gott, Director of the Office of Information Technology.  “The success of this project is due to the collaborative efforts of the Prince George’s County government, municipalities, libraries and the schools and many members of higher education.”

Developed by a partnership of the county and numerous municipalities, the Prince George’s County I-Net is an exemplary partnership among public entities to meet public safety, educational, e-government, and public health needs. The network is creating cost savings for County and municipal agencies. For example, by offering voice communications services over the network, the County will save hundreds of thousands of dollars in phone line and service expenses.

“Our honorees are leading the way toward America’s broadband future,” said NATOA’s President, Doris J. Boris. “They are involved in planning and deploying communications networks for government and public use, and in articulating the need for a national broadband strategy to ensure the economic competitiveness and well-being of our nation and of our communities in the 21st century.  Our honorees have distinguished themselves by answering the need for a public role in broadband development in partnership with the private sector.” 

Prince George’s County was among six outstanding leaders to receive the 2008 NATOA Community Broadband Awards.  The award recipients were chosen based on their extraordinary efforts, achievements, and innovation in community-based approaches to broadband. NATO further highlighted that these individuals, organizations, and communities have distinguished themselves in the effort to ensure that more American communities and residents benefit from new technology.

“NATOA applauds Prince George’s County, its municipalities, and all the stakeholders for planning and building this impressive network,” said NATOA’s Executive Director, Libby Beaty.  “It is a wonderful example of how local governments are working to protect public health and safety, enhance emergency communications, and facilitate education through I-Nets and other communications infrastructure.”

NATOA, a national trade association based in Alexandria, Virginia, promotes community interests in communications. NATOA represents local government jurisdictions and consortiums, including elected and appointed officials and staff, who oversee communications and cable television franchising. For more information go to www.natoa.org.