In a notable push to close the digital gap in Missouri, the state is now aiming to massively expand broadband availability. The Department of Economic Development's Office of Broadband Development (OBD) has recently released Missouri's Final Proposal for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. The plan looks to infuse over $700 million into connecting more than 200,000 unserved and underserved homes and businesses with high-speed internet, an official statement disclosed. Public input on the proposal is being sought up until September 26, following which, the OBD will fine-tune and submit the plan to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) for final review.
According to the recently unveiled information, the governor of Missouri, Mike Kehoe, emphasized the state's commitment to digital inclusivity. "Our administration is committed to making sure we connect all Missourians by providing access to reliable, high-speed internet," he said. The BEAD program is set to be a cornerstone in the state's economic advancement, according to a statement obtained by the Department of Economic Development. The initiative aims to not just connect hundreds of thousands, but to also pump upwards of $450 million into Missouri-based enterprises, potentially leveraging an additional $400 million from private investments. They hope to quickly bring fiber-based services to 81% of locations while conservatively using less than half of the state's BEAD allocation, thus saving nearly a billion dollars.
Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development, underscored the importance of the move towards enhanced internet accessibility. "Expanding access to reliable, high-speed internet is essential for Missouri’s future," Hataway declared. The plan aims to ensure that every household and business has the tools required to be competitive in current economic landscapes. Hataway's comments, expressed pride in the broadband team's dedication towards this ambitious goal, set to potentially redefine the way Missourians engage with the digital economy, as detailed by the Department of Economic Development.
The call to action for public involvement is strong, with the OBD pressing for feedback to assist to directly shape the plan's finalization. A survey, accessible on the program webpage, has been opened for comments. Additionally, Missouri's broadband map will soon reflect updates including provisionally awarded providers and technologies at an address level for locations eligible under the BEAD program.
Once set into motion and granted approval by the NTIA, the funded projects through the BEAD program will have a timespan of four years to wrap up their deployments. This step signifies a major pivot towards embracing technology fully within the state and is set to play a pivotal role in not just bridging the digital divide, but also in fostering a robust economic environment prepared for contemporary challenges.
