An opportunity arose earlier this week for Montanans to access over half a billion federal dollars to enhance the state’s high-speed internet capabilities.
The Montana Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program, run by the state’s Department of Administration, started accepting applications this month and will continue until October 15th. With federal funds combined, the state has allocated almost $1 billion to improve broadband connectivity in one of the least populated states in the U.S.
Misty Ann Giles, the director of the Department of Administration, mentioned, “These are areas that are really challenging for telecommunications companies to reach without some government funding to kickstart things.”
Giles compared the state’s BEAD program to historical projects like the Rural Electrification Act and federal water construction projects, which were jumpstarted by federal investment and eventually taken over by the private sector.
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In November 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This bill provided significant federal support for national infrastructure. Montana received over $1 billion for rehabilitating highways and bridges through this act. Additionally, funds were allocated to expand broadband internet access in the state.
The ConnectMT Broadband Office, established in May 2021, was tasked with determining how to invest in Montana’s broadband infrastructure. The office documented the digital divide in Montana and secured federal funding through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program.
Montana’s BEAD program aims to enhance broadband access for rural Montanans and increase broadband subscriptions. Nearly 87,500 locations in the state could benefit from improved broadband access.
Giles emphasized the importance of online connectivity in today’s world, from paying taxes to accessing telehealth services and educational resources.
While BEAD funding applications are primarily for telecommunications providers, city, county, and tribal governments can also apply. Approved applicants have four years to complete their projects.
