With $1.7 billion in BEAD funds on the table, Missouri has announced that it has been given the go-ahead to get to work on broadband deployment. As The Salem News Online reports, the approval by the NTIA means that BEAD monies can be released to start funding numerous projects throughout Missouri.
“The NTIA’s approval of Missouri’s Initial Proposal for the BEAD program is great news for our ongoing efforts in statewide broadband expansion,” Governor Mike Parson said. “Our state has already made historic investments in the critical priority of internet connectivity to support business, agriculture, health care, education, and more. We appreciate the support of our partners at the NTIA and look forward to putting BEAD funds to good use by bringing quality connections to every Missourian within the next five years.”
The Office of Broadband Development (OBD) initially identified 205,620 unserved and underserved locations, but has modified its initial estimate to include an additional 201,574 locations. So far, the OBD reports that it has helped bring broadband to 65,874 underserved individuals and businesses. Continued improvements in OBD mapping are expected to make it easier to pinpoint the areas still in need of broadband services, notes Salem News.
“We’re thrilled to have reached this milestone in achieving our goal of statewide internet access,” stated BJ Tanksley, Director of the Office of Broadband Development. “Approval of Missouri’s Initial Proposal for the BEAD program is a major accomplishment that brings us even closer to a fully connected future. This success was made possible through the feedback and hard work of many stakeholders and citizens who we’re grateful to call partners in connecting all Missourians.”
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