The Nebraska Broadband Office (NBO) is excited to announce it has completed a major milestone in the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. NBO has received approval from National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) of its final inventory of 29,597 homes and businesses eligible for the $405M federal funding allocated to Nebraska to deploy broadband.
“As Nebraskans, we pride ourselves on innovation and progress,” said Governor Jim Pillen. “This investment into our state will be a defining moment. I encourage all internet providers to join us in building a stronger, more connected Nebraska that ensures every resident has access to the opportunities and resources needed to thrive for generations to come.”
Last year, as part of the challenge process, members of the public could look at the broadband map and help improve it. As a result, NBO reviewed service data for over 90,000 locations across Nebraska. The final inventory is the outcome of NBO’s previous challenge process, additional information from other grant program funding, and incorporating updates from the FCC Fabric Version 4. The Fabric is the basis of the National Broadband Map which identifies locations where fixed broadband internet access service is or could be installed.
These 29,597 BEAD-eligible locations have been strategically divided into 133 Defined Project Areas (DPAs), using multiple criteria to maximize their attractiveness to internet service providers seeking funding opportunities and encourage competitive applications.
Upon completion of BEAD, every Nebraskan – urban and rural – will have reliable high-speed internet access, with minimum speeds of 100/20 Mbps. This connectivity will fuel Nebraska’s economy, creating pathways for economic growth, expanding telehealth services, and enabling precision agriculture.
“Nebraska is on the brink of a major transformation,” said Director Patrick Haggerty. “Our vision is to position Nebraska as a leader in connectivity, creating opportunities for every resident. We’re excited to achieve this milestone and excited for what lies ahead.”
NBO has also published its NTIA-approved Initial Proposal Volume II (IPV2), which is available on its website at broadband.nebraska.gov. IPV2 details how NBO will utilize BEAD funding and outlines key project milestones and highlights how this innovative initiative will bring lasting benefits to Nebraska.
As the state prepares for the next phase of the NBEAD program, NBO is committed to partnering with internet service providers to deliver high-speed internet to every corner of the state.