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Commissioner: $720M spent on Florida broadband; $1.2B remains under state program
Summary
A commissioner briefed the board on Florida broadband funding and a state local technology planning team meeting that will discuss remaining deployment dollars and contractor flexibility to extend fiber to additional households.
Commissioner Harvey told the Putnam County Board that the state of Florida has spent about $720 million on broadband projects and that roughly $1.2 billion remains available for projects that must be obligated by October 2026.
Harvey said a state Local Technology Planning Team meeting is scheduled for Thursday at 10:30 a.m. and that representatives from the Florida Department of Commerce will present information about funding and program flexibility. Harvey said the department is willing to work with contractors to extend existing fiber routes to reach additional homes when feasible.
Why it matters: The remaining state funds are targeted for broadband expansion; commissioners said Putnam County should be prepared to identify eligible locations so contractors can be directed to add routes while projects are active. Harvey said the state “doesn’t want to send it back” and will adjust contracts to serve additional residences where possible.
Background: Harvey said the remaining program dollars must be used by October 2026. Staff will circulate the Zoom link and details for the Thursday meeting; Commissioner Harvey said County Administrator Ritchie will distribute the meeting link.
Next steps: Commissioners and staff discussed participation in the meeting and encouraged local stakeholders to attend. No vote or formal direction was recorded in the meeting minutes.
