Infrastructure
Expedited Federal Review Boosts Rollout of Broadband Initiatives
Permitting changes are accelerating the expansion of semiconductor fabs and solar developments.
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.
Infrastructure
Permitting changes are accelerating the expansion of semiconductor fabs and solar developments.
Community Broadband
On August 30, CPUC officials formally approved both a third and fourth round of FFA broadband funding.
5G Fund
Carr argued against moving forward with fund changes before BEAD deployments.
BEAD
The agency is accepting applications for digital equity grants until September 23.
Expert Opinion
I don’t want to burst bubbles, but there will not be substantial BEAD spending in 2025.
FCC
As SpaceX leads in orbital launches, the $42.5B BEAD program could further bolster its role in global broadband expansion.
BEAD
Comments are due at the agency before September 11.
BEAD
The state will accept applications for 60 days.
5G Wireless
ISPs want the FCC to ensure access to light poles to speed infrastructure deployment.
Expert Opinion
The government has a terrible habit of repeating mistakes.
FCC
Electric companies told the FCC unnecessarily large requests compound a labor shortage.
FCC
Union leaders lauded the BEAD program's pro-union and workforce protection provisions.
NTCA
The group has told the federal government some rules might keep its members from participating.
BEAD
The first application round will close August 29, with a final second round to follow.
Funding
GCI suggested adjusting support to account for a rise in inflation
BEAD
Montana claimed to be the first state to launch its BEAD grant application portal.