OBAE News:
SANTA FE — New Mexico received 42 new applications in just two weeks for $675 million in federal broadband grants, bringing the total to 87 applications as providers rush to expand high-speed internet to more than 44,000 unserved locations statewide.
The surge in applications came after new federal rules restarted the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program last month. The 42 applications submitted in two weeks show increased interest compared to the original three-month application period.
“These dollars will go to projects that will change the landscape for communities, transform lives and provide vital services and information for New Mexico families,” Jeff Lopez said, director of OBAE.
The latest applicants include eight internet service providers, five cooperatives, three Tribal entities and two low earth orbit satellite providers. Combined with the remaining first-round applications, 20 entities have now applied for 87 total projects spanning multiple technologies.
The state must implement new federal guidance and submit final proposals by Sept. 4. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration has committed to review and approve all proposals within 90 days.
New Mexico’s $675 million represents part of the $42.5 billion BEAD program allocated across all 50 states and six territories to connect unserved and underserved locations nationwide.