Disaster Continuity for Businesses and Communities in Rural Texas
Whether fire, hurricanes, floods, extreme weather or COVID-19, disasters are frequent in Texas. Disasters affect businesses both large and small, and highlight the vulnerabilities of infrastructural systems such as power, water, and broadband connectivity. While some disaster-recovery resources are available for businesses in Texas (e.g., GLO, FEMA, SBA), the team’s recent research indicates that small, often rural communities in Texas lack the resources to plan for or respond after disasters, as well as to write grants to assist in preparedness and recovery.
In the summer of 2022, under the guidance of the research team, five University students interviewed community members and business owners to learn more about their needs in the face of disasters. Using data gathered in their interviews, the research team has created resources for businesses wanting to be more prepared for disasters.
MEDIA
Faculty blog – Keri Stephens
Student blogs – Mariana Arevalo, Daniel Guerra, Andrea Martinez, Jennifer Torres, and José Manuel Vazquez.
Disaster Continuity for Businesses and Communities in Rural Texas: Investigating Infrastructure, Communication and Planning Needs
reportResearch Team
Keri Stephens
Professor, Department of Communication Studies and Director, Technology and Information Policy Institute
