Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Broadband Affordability topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
AT&T outlines $30 low‑income fiber option, pledges local follow‑up on eligibility and coverage
Summary
AT&T told the Austin Technology Commission it has invested heavily in the region and promotes an 'Access' program that offers up to 100 Mbps on fiber for $30/month to households at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines or participating in government assistance programs; the company agreed to provide local eligibility and conversion data upon request.
Paige Johnson of AT&T told the Austin Technology Commission on Dec. 4 that the company is investing in Austin’s broadband infrastructure while expanding its low‑cost program for limited‑income households.
"Access from AT&T is available to households below 200% of federal poverty guidelines or those in government assistance programs," Johnson said, adding the plan can deliver speeds up to 100 megabits per second for about $30 per month on AT&T fiber. She said AT&T invested nearly $12,900,000,000 statewide from 2020 through 2024 and about $1,100,000,000 in the Austin–Round Rock–Georgetown area during that period.
Johnson framed the plan as part of AT&T’s broader digital‑equity work in Austin, including refurbished device donations, contributions to local nonprofits and a Connected Learning Center at the Austin Boys & Girls Club. "We also know digital equity goes beyond devices. It's about learning environments that open doors," she said.
Commissioners pressed for more local data and asked whether the $30 price point aligns with the former federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) subsidy. Chair Stephen Apodaca said commissioners consistently hear concerns about competitive price points for underserved residents. Johnson said she did not have ACP‑comparison figures on hand but offered to follow up with staff and the commission.
The presentation prompted questions about whether the offering applies in areas served only by wireless and how AT&T maps underserved neighborhoods. Johnson said AT&T has expansion plans and will provide follow‑up information about coverage footprints and whether similar low‑cost options are available outside fiber‑served areas.
What happens next: Johnson agreed to be the commission’s point of contact for follow‑up questions about eligibility, conversions from ACP and coverage maps. The commission will await AT&T’s written details on local availability and price comparisons.
