Washington State Department of Commerce
Washington Public Works Board approves $21 million in broadband construction, pre-construction, and emergency grants and loans
The Washington State Public Works Board (PWB) recently approved $21 million in critical infrastructure projects in 10 communities for broadband construction, pre-construction, and emergency funding. Taking action at its May 3, 2024 business meeting, the PWB approved $20 million to expand broadband access in unserved communities, $550,000 for two pre-construction projects, and two emergency infrastructure projects for $514,500.
Washington State Public Works Board opens application cycle for $15.8 million in broadband funding
The Washington State Public Works Board opened applications for broadband funding, offering $15.8 million in grants and low-interest loans for broadband construction projects. Projects in distressed counties are eligible for 30% grant and 70% loan funding, until funds are exhausted. Local governments, tribes, nonprofit organizations, cooperative associations, multiparty entities, limited liability corporations (LLCs), and incorporated businesses or partnerships are eligible to apply. The Board may award funds to projects passing threshold ratings based on a competitive ranking process.
Washington Releases Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program (BEAD) DRAFT Initial Proposal Volume I
The Washington State Broadband Office (WSBO) announced the opening of a public comment period for Washington’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program (BEAD) DRAFT Initial Proposal Volume I. The public comment period is open for 30 days, and will close on Nov. 10, 2023. Volume I contains information from four of 20 Initial Proposal requirements.
Washington State Broadband Office awards $14.5 million to provide one-on-one technical support, devices, and subscriptions to facilitate internet use and adoption
The Washington State Department of Commerce committed $14.5 million in grants to continue expanding access to the internet through digital navigator services. These grants were awarded to three organizations:
Internet for All in Washington: Digital Equity Plan
The Washington State Broadband Office (WSBO) developed a vision for digital equity in Washington state: Everyone in Washington has affordable broadband internet technology as well as the tools and skills needed to participate in our digital society before 2028. The WSBO has established three goals designed to achieve the stated vision:
Broadband infrastructure investments promise access to high-speed internet connections for nearly 15,000 Washington households
The Washington State Broadband Office has awarded over $121 million in grants for 19 broadband construction projects that will deliver reliable, high-speed internet access to unserved and underserved communities across the state. Demand for the grants exceeded available funds by 261% – 50 different projects requested more than $316 million.
Up to $900 million at stake: State seeks public input on federal broadband map
Washington state’s three funding partners working to expand broadband access to all businesses and residents are asking the public to help check Federal Communications Commission data in a recently published National Broadband Map. The Washington State Broadband Office (WSBO), Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB), and Public Works Board (PWB) said the accuracy of this map is essential to future broadband funding in Washington, in particular, up to an estimated $900 million in federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding. All Washington residents are encouraged t