The FCC is targeting November to release a first draft of its new broadband location maps. The Commission has finished reviewing the material collected since June 30 from broadband providers. Agency personnel have also met with local governments and lawmakers to explain the process going forward.
In an update on Friday, Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel noted the FCC has partnered with NTIA to connect with providers and state broadband leaders. Since completing its review of data on where broadband is and is not located, she says, “We are ready to get to work and start developing new and improved broadband maps.”
Rosenworcel explains: “When the first draft is released, it will provide a far more accurate picture of broadband availability in the United States than our old maps ever did. That’s worth celebrating. But our work will in no way be done.” The maps are designed to be updated, refined and improved over time.
The agency plans to open a window to challenge the broadband location dataset it now has on September 12. It plans to hold a webinar on September 7 on how to do that.
By Leslie Stimson, Inside Towers Washington Bureau Chief
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