Utah Broadband Center Seeks Public Input on Plans To Expand High-Speed Internet Access Throughout Utah

The Utah Broadband Center (UBC), part of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, asks for public feedback on the drafts of the Utah Digital Connectivity Plan and Digital Equity Plan. Comments can be submitted online through July 6, 2023. The Utah Digital Connectivity Plan and Digital Equity Plan highlight Utah’s vision, goals, objectives, and strategies to help get all Utahns connected to affordable high-speed broadband internet and access to the tools and resources needed to succeed in the digital world. Both plans help guide the allocation of federal funding to the state for high-speed broadband internet infrastructure expansion and digital access over the next five years. Individuals can provide input through the project website or by calling (435) 264-8880. Following the public comment period, UBC will review feedback, finalize the plans, and submit them to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to receive additional federal funds to support the deployment of broadband infrastructure and digital access programs. In conjunction with Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding, a federal grant was awarded to Utah through the Digital Equity Act to develop the Utah Digital Equity Plan. This plan focuses on bridging the digital divide and creating a more equitable opportunity for all to access the digital world.