A San Luis Obispo-based economic development group is pushing for state grants to improve broadband access in the Tri-Counties.

The Economic Vitality Corp. of San Luis Obispo County is launching a letter-writing campaign for a grant from the California Public Utilities Commission to form what would be called the Broadband Consortium of the Pacific Coast. The consortium would identify assets and needs and propose action to the Public Utilities Commission to improve broadband Internet access throughout Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.

“Broadband access is essential to the success of our local businesses, as well as education, healthcare and public safety,” the group said in a letter to members.

The group is urging interested business leaders to write to Public Utilities Commission President Michael Peevey by Jan. 10.