Oregon allocates $688M for ambitious broadband expansion under BEAD program

In a pivotal meeting held by the Oregon State Legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Transportation and Economic Development, officials outlined ambitious plans to enhance broadband access across the state. The discussions centered on several key programs aimed at bridging the digital divide, particularly for underserved communities.

At the forefront is the Broadband Deployment Program, backed by a substantial $157 million allocation from the American Rescue Plan Act. This initiative aims to construct essential broadband infrastructure in areas where internet speeds fall below 100 over 20 megabits per second. With 17 awards already made, the program is set to impact over 13,000 locations, many of which currently experience painfully slow internet speeds. Officials emphasized the urgency of the project, noting a tight deadline to complete the infrastructure by December 31, 2026.

Building on this momentum, the meeting also highlighted the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, which boasts a national budget of $42.5 billion, with Oregon's share amounting to nearly $689 million. This program aims to ensure high-speed, reliable internet access for every location in Oregon lacking such service. The pre-qualification process for potential applicants has already begun, with a diverse range of participants from small rural ISPs to major corporations like Comcast and Amazon.

In addition to broadband initiatives, the meeting addressed the Digital Equity State Capacity Grant Program, which seeks to implement Oregon's digital equity plan. With an expected allocation of $9.9 million for 2024, this program aims to provide equitable digital services to various federally defined population groups.

The discussions also touched on the importance of business innovation and trade, with officials outlining strategies to attract foreign direct investment and support local businesses in accessing international markets. The committee acknowledged the need for targeted industries to focus resources effectively, while also recognizing the vital role of agriculture and value-added products in Oregon's economy.

As the meeting concluded, officials expressed a commitment to rapidly advancing these initiatives, emphasizing the critical nature of broadband access for education, healthcare, and economic development in Oregon. The urgency of these programs reflects a broader recognition of the need for equitable access to technology in an increasingly digital world.