Broadband Update
BEAD Funding Update
There have been some Federal guidances changes as follows:
- States had to rescind previous preliminary awards
- All States must issue a Benefit of Bargain (BOB) grant round
- The priority project definition has changed - BEAD funding is now technology neutral (no fiber preference)
- Awarding/scoring primarily based on lowest cost per location
- Due to the new guindance being technology neutral, not all locations will be available for applications, the WBO is working to remove locations in accordance with NTIA guidance to avoid duplication of BEAD funding. Reasons include:
- Location is in-progress under an existing state or federal award
- Location has existing certified Unlicensed Fixed Wireless Service that meets the technical requirements of BEAD
- Location no longer exists in the broadband fabric (haybales, vacant lots, etc.)
- Unserved and Underserved locations will be funded together and at once
This means that ISPs will rebid on project units they are interested in with whatever technology they chose. The intent with this is to have NTIA review and approve state's Final Proposal's to issue funding to states before the end of 2025.
For more information see: Door County Fibernet