The Broadband Equity and Access Deployment Program, otherwise known as BEAD, is a $42 billion project aimed at closing the digital divide. Rural connectivity groups say it is a good start, but warn more needs to be done to keep the momentum going.
“The key to the success of this program is making sure that the partners from the private sector that are doing the work, that are building the networks, we need to make sure that they have expertise building and maintaining and upgrading the networks over time is paramount. The key is getting those providers who understand the unique challenges of working in rural and remote areas. It’s terrain. It’s the weather. Increasingly, engineering solutions have to be made to solve problems, and private providers have the workforce, they have the history, and they know what they’re doing. That’s going to be the key to success,” said Niel Ritchie.
The program is not without controversy. The BEAD program was part of the infrastructure law passed in 2021, and Iowa Senator Joni Ernst says little to no progress has been made. She recommends the newly-created Department of Government Efficiency look at cutting the $42 billion budget.
