Broadband has become an essential utility. Unlike regulated utilities (electricity, gas, water, and sewer), broadband connectivity is a public-private partnership. A lack of high-speed broadband undermines the quality of life for residents and the potential for local businesses to thrive.  This “digital divide” also presents a real obstacle for children to receive a quality education, for patients to obtain quality healthcare, and for constituents to access government services.

In rural communities, access to affordable, high-speed broadband is a significant concern. With low density populations, these areas are financially less attractive to broadband providers for development. These companies demand a return on investment that often cannot be met in rural communities. However, federal and state funding has recently become available to local communities to meet this financial challenge to broadband expansion. This includes the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). In Pennsylvania, the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program aims to help residents and businesses gain access to affordable high-speed internet through investments in broadband planning, deployment, mapping, equity, and adoption activities.

Attorneys at the Broadband Law Firm represent local governments to expand broadband access in rural communities. We identify sources of funding, submit funding applications, negotiate with broadband providers, manage the zoning process, and track performance compliance.

Let’s discuss how the Broadband Law Firm can assist your community in expanding broadband access.