State broadband official tells Caswell commissioners federal and state programs aim to close coverage gaps; construction costs, timelines vary

Jeff Brooks of the North Carolina Department of Information Technology briefed the Caswell County Board of Commissioners on broadband availability, mapping and funding options, describing both state and federal programs that subsidize construction and explaining how coverage maps differ by technology.

Brooks said the state and federal approach has moved from census-block reporting to address-based mapping, which better identifies unserved locations. He estimated Caswell County construction costs of roughly $40,000–$80,000 per mile and said typical subsidies cover about 70–75% of build costs for eligible locations; providers cover the remainder. Brooks cautioned that the state does not subsidize ongoing maintenance and that federally funded projects may take longer to complete (he referenced the RDOF program’s multi-year timeline, with some projects completing in 2027).

The presentation also contrasted FCC coverage maps (which count many technologies) with the state’s more granular maps that separate cable/fiber from fixed wireless and satellite. Brooks said the state dashboard lists active projects and eligibility; he encouraged residents who believe they lack service to contact the NCDIT team so staff can verify coverage and include eligible locations in projects.

Commissioners thanked Brooks for the update; Commissioner Rose asked for an estimate of how many of the county’s roughly 8,500 housing units are covered under current contracts and whether additional county funding would be needed for specific state programs (STOP GAP/B programs). Brooks said program rules vary and that county participation and local leadership help identify priority locations.

No formal vote followed the presentation.