Expert Opinion
Tim Stelzig: Explaining BEAD, Trying to Bridge the Digital Divide
Some areas that are relatively easier to serve have received multiple rounds of federal investment, while others perpetually remain left behind.
Energy
Panelists Warn of ‘Choke Points’ in America’s Nuclear Energy Future
Permitting delays, transmission backlogs, siting fights, and supply chain gaps top the list.
Digital Inclusion
USDA Scrubs DEI Criteria from Rural Broadband Grant Programs
Removal of DEI scoring may shift broadband funds away from Tribes and disadvantaged areas.
Energy
Reps. Fleischmann and Weber to Headline Data Center and Energy Summit
Experts gather next Thursday to explore AI infrastructure challenges at the intersection of data centers, nuclear power, and broadband.
Funding
USDA to Open Applications for $26 Million Community Connect Program
Recipients last year included NEK Community Broadband, Lewis County PUD, and Pulse Broadband.
Funding
Tech, Broadband Bills Dropped by Congress in New Funding Bill
Omits measures on NTIA coordination, deepfakes, and FCC transparency.
NTIA
Former RUS Leader Keeps Backing a Fiber-First Approach
‘To make America great again, you need ubiquitous, high-speed broadband.’
Advanced Energy
USDA’s Andy Berke Champions Fiber as Key to Rural Broadband Success
Broadband experts cautioned against alternative technologies under BEAD.
BBC
High-Speed Internet a Lifeline for Rural America’s Farms and Economy, USDA Says
The critical need for broadband deployment in rural America is emphasized by the loss of 557,000 farms sinc, RUS chief says.
USDA
RUS Launches $60M Grant Initiative for Distance Learning and Telemedicine Projects
The grant funds can be used for acquiring equipment, improving broadband infrastructure, developing instructional programming, and more.
USDA
USDA Needs Greater Flexibility in Deployment of Broadband Authority, Says RUS Administrator Andy Berke
Director of RUS called for more flexibility in how it administers federal funds.
FBA
Fiber Finds Its Footing, Offering Future-Proof High Speeds
The COVID-19 pandemic provided the foundation case for why fiber’s symmetrical capabilities have became so central.
RUS
Running USDA’s Rural Utilities Service Isn’t Andy Berke’s First Act in Broadband
Almost all of Berke’s work seems to be about making a difference for higher-quality broadband.
EPA
Specific Mapping is Key to the ReConnect Application, USDA Says
The mapping tool in the ReConnect application process allows applicants to designate proposed routes.
USDA
Agriculture Department Announces Fourth Round of ReConnect Funding
The announcement is the second round of ReConnect funding in fiscal year 2022.
RUS
USDA Considering Drawing on Infrastructure Bill Money as ReConnect Demand Increases
The USDA has been allocated $2 billion from the Infrastructure, Investment and Jobs Act.
