High-speed internet access is a necessity. It helps to ensure public safety, increases opportunities for businesses and workers, and provides an equal opportunity for students.
The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program is providing $42.45 billion for states, territories, the District of Columbia (D.C.), and Puerto Rico (P.R.) to use for broadband deployment, mapping, and adoption projects. Pennsylvania has been awarded $1.16 billion in federal BEAD funding.
The BEAD program requires Pennsylvania to conduct a map challenge process, which will assist in determining which Broadband Serviceable Locations (BSLs) and Community Anchor Institutions (CAIs) will be eligible to be served utilizing BEAD funds.
Federal guidance also requires the completion of an Initial Proposal: Volume I & Volume II. Volume I has been approved. It outlines existing broadband funding, unserved/underserved Broadband Serviceable Locations (BSLs), Community Anchor Institutions, as well as the challenge process for BEAD funding. Volume II outlines has been submitted and is currently under review. It outlines local coordination efforts, subgrantee selection process, implementation activities, labor standards and workforce readiness, low-cost service options, middle-class affordability, and more.
