County hears BEAD update as officials prepare broadband grant applications

County officials discussed next steps for federal broadband funding after BEAD volume two received FCC approval. Andy, speaking for the committee, said the state submitted BEAD materials and that eligible locations and application timelines are likely to be published later in 2024. He said three local telephone companies plan to submit applications and that previously ARPA-funded fiber projects with partners including Bcom and Mosaic remain in progress and are expected to complete this year.

Andy said the BEAD mapping effort will define which census locations are eligible for construction grants and that the application period will follow publication of those maps. “Volume two is now…improved,” he said, adding that the program will require significant paperwork and that consultants are likely to play a role.

Committee member Steve said wireless solutions—both fixed wireless and satellite services such as Starlink—were discussed at statewide broadband meetings and may be considered for BEAD eligibility where fiber is cost-prohibitive. The committee noted uncertainty about whether particular satellite providers will qualify under the state’s rules, and members said they are awaiting guidance on eligible technology types and application details.

The group also reviewed ARPA-funded projects the county has pledged, with Andy reporting contractors are working to put fiber in the ground and complete splicing. Members said project timelines are constrained by the availability of crews to install and splice fiber.

Next steps: the committee will watch for the state’s publication of BEAD-eligible locations and grant timelines, coordinate with local carriers planning applications, and monitor completion of ARPA-funded fiber builds.