Rural
RDOF Default Leaves Some Rural Areas Without BEAD Path
South Central Connect walks away from 13 census block groups.
Rural
Because Rural America is often the least-connected region in the country, ensuring coverage is central to BEAD.
Broadband Mapping and Data
NTCA Members Deliver Fiber to Rural Schools, Libraries, and Hospitals
Survey of NTCA members finds nearly nine in 10 schools, libraries, and hospitals are served by fiber.
FCC
Why the RAIL Act Matters for America’s Digital Future
The RAIL Act aims to stop railroad companies from blocking broadband expansion with excessive fees and permit delays.
Rural
WISPs Dispute Speed Test Report
An Ookla speed test analysis found speeds were increasing at larger WISPs, but were mostly below federal benchmarks.
Rural
FCC Chair Offers Few Specifics on Universal Service Reforms
NTCA’s Bloomfield worries Carr’s push for USF ‘efficiency’ could hurt rural providers
Rural
Senate Clears Agriculture Bill With $109 Million for Rural Broadband
USDA's ReConnect would see about $50 million for 2026, more than the Senate had previously put forward.
Rural
USDA Nominee Glen Smith Vows Review of Rural Broadband Programs
During his nomination hearing, lawmakers pressed on coordinating USDA’s broadband programs and reviewing stalled energy projects.
Rural
Starlink Fallout Delays Ontario’s Universal Internet Target
Ontario delayed its broadband goal to 2028 amid U.S. trade tensions and construction setbacks.
Rural
Quintillion Completes Arctic Cable Burial, Restores Connectivity After 9 Months
Alaska ISP says all services have been fully restored to affected communities.
Rural
RiverStreet’s $20M Fiber Build in Bedford County, Va., Delayed Until 2026
Delays from a railroad-crossing permit and added projects have pushed the timeline back to June 2026.
Data Center
Rural Internet Access Critical for AI Competitiveness: Connected Nation
Rural America risks falling behind in the AI race without foundational infrastructure
AI
AI Infrastructure Boom Drives Need for Jump in U.S. Energy Production, Experts Say
AI's energy demands will require a 25% boost in U.S. electricity production over five years, experts warned.
USF
Rural Carriers: Operating Expense Support From Universal Service Necessary
The carriers say their legacy USF support has dwindled as the FCC phased out legacy programs in favor of competitive auctions.
Rural
At Last, Quintillion Completes Arctic Cable Repair
Alaska-based firm restores data traffic after subsea fiber line was cut in January.
Rural
Rural Co-op Executives Press Congress to Modernize Universal Service Fund
Witnesses pressure lawmakers to update funding model and prioritize affordability.
Rural
FCC’s Trusty Reports on Week-Long Visit to Alaska
Says FCC broadband programs spurring deployment.
