Broadband Stimulus

In February 2009, federal lawmakers approved more than $7 billion for expanding broadband availability nationwide as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).

Included in this broadband stimulus funding is $350 million set aside for the Broadband Data Improvement Act (BDIA), which Congress enacted in October 2008.

The BDIA contains a grant program for states to develop comprehensive broadband expansion programs based on grassroots-driven efforts to improve computer and broadband use for each community.

A number of states have already developed best-of-breed broadband programs as set forth in the BDIA. These states include Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio and Illinois.

The BDIA grant program also provides funding for states to map broadband service availability in an effort to identify unserved and underserved areas. This collaborative, public-private approach to broadband mapping is underway in at least 10 different states, producing real-time, street-level broadband maps.

On July 1, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) released further details on the BDIA grant program, the application process, and other broadband stimulus opportunities. To learn more about the notice of available funds, click here. To learn about the application process for the grant programs, click here.

On Monday, July 6, Connected Nation, along with the Alliance for Digital Equality, the American Farm Bureau Federation, Communications Workers of America (CWA) and The National Grange, hosted a free webinar for Governors’ staff and state CIOs, CTOs and broadband officials. To view the slides from the presentation, click here.

Connected Nation, using ArcGIS technology in partnership with ESRI, has released statewide maps of rural and remote areas in seven states to support applications for broadband infrastructure funds now available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). A nationwide PDF map of rural and remote areas is also available. To view the maps, click here.

To learn more about stimulus opportunities for states, e-mail broadbandstimulus@connectednation.org. To view our "Mapping Your Broadband Solution" pamphlet, click here.