The Regional Broadband Working Group was developed following the discussion and needs uncovered during the PPACG Tri-County Study to foster collaboration and support solutions.
The introductory meeting was held virtually on May 12, 2022, to make introductions, determine interest, and establish meeting frequency.
Broadband Equity, Access & Deployment (BEAD) Program
This program is the primary broadband component of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL)/Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, provides $42.45 billion to expand high-speed internet access by funding planning, infrastructure deployment and adoption programs in all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
The A Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) application guidance, webinars, and other materials can be found online: https://broadbandusa.ntia.doc.gov/resources/grant-programs/broadband-equity-access-and-deployment-bead-program
Application deadline: July 18, 2022
Community Connect Grant Program
The purpose of the Community Connect Program is to provide financial assistance in the form of grants to eligible applicants that will provide, on a “community -oriented connectivity” basis, broadband service that fosters economic growth and delivers enhanced educational, health care, and public safety benefits. Additional information can be found at https://www.rd.usda.gov/community-connect
Application Window: Currently Closed
Telecommunications Infrastructure Loan Program
This program provides financing for the construction, maintenance, improvement and expansion of telephone service and broadband in rural areas. For more information on other programs administered by RUS Telecommunications please visit : http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/all-programs/telecom-programs
Application Window: Open
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program provides annual grants on a formula basis to states, cities, and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons.
The Department of Local Affairs administers the federal CDBG program in Colorado. Applications, eligibility, and additional information can be found at Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) | Department of Local Affairs (colorado.gov).
Application Window: Closed for February 2022
Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program is an FCC benefit program that helps ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more.
The benefit provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price.
The Affordable Connectivity Program is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.
To enroll, and for more information, visit https://www.fcc.gov/acp.
This existing Department of Agriculture program will provide almost $2 billion in loans and grants for projects that provide broadband in rural areas. Applications will likely open in the 3rd quarter of 2022 (and towns in rural areas can apply to the current $1.15B in loans and grant funding).
Application Window: Closed for 2022
Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Program
Local networks are important for bringing high-speed internet to communities. But local networks aren’t enough. They need to connect to robust, high-capacity national and regional networks. Middle mile infrastructure makes this possible. By connecting to major networks, local networks can ensure reliable high-speed internet service for even the most remote communities.
This program provides funding for this vital part of our nation’s high-speed network. With $1 billion in funding, the program will reduce the cost of bringing high-speed internet to unserved and underserved communities. Information is available at Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Program | BroadbandUSA (doc.gov).
Application Deadline: September 30, 2022
Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation Grant program
Provides supplemental funding grants to rural, midsized, and large communities to conduct demonstration projects focused on advanced smart city or community technologies and systems in a variety of communities to improve transportation efficiency and safety to include intelligent infrastructure, systems integration, smart grid, and smart technology traffic signal projects. A Notice of Funding Opportunity is expected in the second or third quarter of 2022.
For more information regarding the working group, or to be invited to the next meeting, contact Jason O’Brien at jobrien@ppacg.org.