BEAD
Utility Pole Costs a Major Expense for BEAD Broadband Projects
Researchers say make-ready expenses could cost up to $4.63 billion nationwide
The Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program is a $42.45 billion initiative administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration of the U.S. Commerce Department. Established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, BEAD aims to expand high-speed Internet access by funding planning, infrastructure deployment and adoption programs.
BEAD
Researchers say make-ready expenses could cost up to $4.63 billion nationwide
BEAD
NTIA said money could be clawed back if service doesn’t meet standards.
Governor JB Pritzker
Illinois Governor expresses frustration at being one of the last to receive NTIA approval.
BEAD
A Nebraska ISP is claiming the first subscriber on BEAD infrastructure.
Appalachian Power Company
Disputed pole replacement fees could delay broadband deployments, the ISP argues.
BEAD
The agency urged ISPs to ensure state contracts exempt them from certain laws and include permitting commitments.
Arkansas
Coordination across agencies and jurisdictions has emerged as the state’s biggest permitting challenge.
BEAD
The proposal would require NTIA to publicly track broadband deployment progress
Infrastructure
The company said the deal would boost its fiber manufacturing capacity by more than 50 percent.
BEAD
The state is planning to finish connecting its 279 eligible locations by the end of 2027.
BEAD
NTIA had previously said the state would have to change course.
John Thune
The legislation would place new responsibilities on the Commerce Department.
Glenn Youngkin
State initiative has delivered broadband to more than 221,500 locations to date.
BEAD
Lack of federal guidance halts more than $300 million in obligated state broadband funding.
Expert Opinion
Maryland officials are urging NTIA and Congress to let states use remaining BEAD funds for integrated, multi-use infrastructure rather than single-purpose broadband builds.
BEAD
The state is hoping to get all projects past environmental reviews by July 4.