Arkansas Juggles Its Broadband Funding

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Arkansas’ American Rescue Plan steering committee met at Governor Asa Hutchinson’s request to discuss how to manage funds to keep the state’s broadband outreach on track. As the El Dorado News-Times reports, the group unanimously agreed that broadband was a priority. Of the $1.57 billion total, $150 million was earmarked for broadband development.

According to State Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary, Stacy Hurst, the $150 million boost would cover $30.7 million needed to get pending projects moving. The funding will address broadband grant applications already approved but not yet funded. There is also a collection of other broadband projects that don’t meet the technical requirements for funding under the American Rescue Act that could advance with a $114.7 million investment. 

Department spokeswoman, Alisha Curtis, noted that so far, Arkansas has tackled 76 major broadband projects. Funding has been provided by grants totalling $113.5 million in federal coronavirus relief funds and $4.5 million in state funds. Of the 76 planned projects, Curtis said that 43 had already been completed.

Hutchinson also noted that he has requested a clarification from the US Treasury regarding the possible exclusion of wireless facilities in favor of wireline, a fiber delivery system. If necessary, he has said he will request an exception to allow Arkansas to continue to use its funding to advance wireless broadband delivery.

“Because of Arkansas’ topography and low population density in rural areas, excluding wireless facilities would be a hardship and greatly increase the cost of broadband projects and reduce the number of projects that could be funded,” explained Steven Porch, chief legal counsel and executive broadband manager for the Commerce Department.

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