Guam’s initial Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment proposal approved

Volume two of Guam’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Initial Proposal Funding Request was approved by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration on Aug. 23, giving the government of Guam’s Office of Infrastructure and Policy Development access to $155 million in funding to improve the island’s communications infrastructure and to make internet access more accessible.

During this time, up to 20% of the total allocation will be made available to the government of Guam and will be dispersed on a reimbursable basis. The remainder of funds will be dispersed after approval of their final proposal to be used in its implementation.

The Office of Infrastructure and Policy Development now has one year to submit their final proposal to the NTIA. Within this year, it must conduct a challenge process where internet service providers, nonprofit organizations, or a unit of local government can challenge the IFPR. After this process, subgrants and project areas can be awarded.

According to an Aug. 30 release, the approved BEAD funding includes:

Infrastructure development: development of state-of-the-art broadband infrastructure to ensure widespread access to high-speed internet, especially in areas that have long been without connectivity.

Affordability: Incentives to make internet services faster and more affordable for low-income and middle-income households.

Sustainable and resilient connectivity: Seeking out robust internet technologies resistant to typhoons and other disasters.

Digital literacy: Programs to promote digital literacy in people of different age groups and skill levels; and

Community engagement: The involvement of the local community in the planning and execution of projects and providing job training while keeping the input of the community is kept at the forefront of planning.

Volume one of the IPFR outlined the principles by identifying key underserved and unserved areas while volume two determined the office’s plan to award subgrantees with fairness and transparency.

Acting Governor Joshua F. Tenorio said in a release, “Now we can get moving in earnest. In today’s world, fast and affordable broadband is crucial for our economy and quality of life. For too long, too many in Guam couldn’t participate. This plan will change that.”

For additional reading on BEAD and its impact on the region, click on the links below:

$156 million BEAD initiative brings telecoms

Industry leaders say BEAD initiative will impact telecoms

"Internet for all" could change mbj