(BPD) — The CNMI Broadband Policy and Development Office is excited to announce the approval of Volume Two of its Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment or BEAD Initial Proposal by the Assistant Secretary for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. This approval, along with the endorsement of Volume One, marks a pivotal step towards providing broadband for all in the CNMI and opening doors to a wealth of digital opportunities for all CNMI residents.
Glen Hunter, special assistant for the CNMI Broadband Policy and Development Office, conveyed gratitude for the approval, stating, “We are heartened by the recognition of our continuous efforts to enhance broadband services in the CNMI. This approval underscores our unwavering dedication and commitment to enhancing broadband services.”
Hunter extended sincere appreciation to all stakeholders in the CNMI, territorial and state broadband offices, the NTIA, and other federal partners for their invaluable contributions to this meticulous planning process. He also acknowledged Gov. Arnold I. Palacios for his leadership and emphasis on this critical initiative. “The Governor’s vision and this collaborative endeavor highlight the commitment of all involved in bridging the digital gap and ensuring fair access to high-speed internet across the Commonwealth,” he added.
Governor Palacios commended BPD for their dedication and steadfast commitment to advancing technological infrastructure in the Commonwealth. “This approval marks a significant milestone and achievement for the BPD Office and the CNMI. We are one step closer to providing Broadband for All in the CNMI,” Governor Palacios emphasized. He underscored the importance of such initiatives in fostering economic growth, improving connectivity, and creating opportunities for education and business development for all residents.
A year ago, the Governor secured $81 million in federal funding from the NTIA for the BEAD program. With this latest NTIA approval, the CNMI now joins 17 other states in this notable planning achievement. The Governor reiterated his gratitude and commitment, stating, “The approval of the Initial Proposal Volume Two reflects our resourcefulness, dedication, and hard work in meeting and surpassing deadlines and expectations.”
The BEAD program aims to allocate funding for broadband infrastructure and digital equity activities. This initiative holds promise for the CNMI, addressing historical challenges that hindered broadband accessibility. By tackling these barriers, BPD strives to enhance internet connectivity, ensuring residents can access improved educational resources, telehealth services, and economic opportunities.
For more information, contact BPD at cnmi.bpd@gmail.com or visit online at bpd.cnmi.gov for updates and further details.
BEAD update
Volume Two was submitted by BPD on December 19, 2023, following a 30-day public review process. Post-submission, it underwent thorough evaluation by the NTIA before receiving official approval on July 12, 2024. The CNMI now joins 17 states that have also received approval for Volume Two (BEAD Initial Proposal Progress Dashboard).
BPD recently concluded the BEAD Challenge Process on June 30, 2024, and is collaborating with NTIA to finalize the status list for all Broadband Serviceable Locations and Community Anchor Institutions. To streamline the process, BPD aligned the challenge process with the Volume Two NTIA review.
Looking ahead, BPD will focus on the next phase of the CNMI BEAD Program by developing and implementing a sub-grant process as outlined in Volume Two. This process is set to commence shortly after NTIA approves the Challenge Process results. A copy of the CNMI BEAD Initial Proposal (Volume One and Two) will be published on the BPD website (bpd.cnmi.gov) in the coming days.
