Maryland Governor Moore Announces $79 Million in Federal Funds to Achieve Universal High-Speed Internet Access

Maryland is set to achieve universal access to high-speed internet following the approval of its Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) plan by the United States Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration. This approval unlocks $79.1 million in federal funding, which will be directed towards the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s Connect Maryland initiative. The program aims to ensure that all residents of Maryland have affordable and equitable access to high-speed internet.

With this new funding, the state will focus on connecting the remaining unserved locations across Maryland. Prior to this announcement, approximately 99.5% of the state was already connected to or had secured funding for high-speed internet services. The latest allocation will address the final 0.5%, which encompasses around 9,000 locations in 18 counties that are currently unserved or underserved. The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has also launched the Maryland Broadband Completion map, a tool designed to provide transparency on the progress of internet infrastructure development. All counties are now designated as fully funded, and the map will visually track the transition to 100% high-speed internet connectivity as build-out progresses.

The approved BEAD plan outlines a strategic approach for the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s Office of Statewide Broadband to effectively deploy federal funds. Key objectives include bridging the digital divide, particularly in rural and underserved areas, and promoting economic development by enhancing connectivity for businesses of all sizes. The initiative also aims to support educational and workforce development through improved access to online learning and job training resources. Furthermore, the plan addresses public health and safety by strengthening emergency response systems and expanding access to telehealth services. A crucial component of the plan involves engaging residents and stakeholders to foster trust and ensure that deployment efforts are tailored to the unique needs of different communities.

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has been actively working to expand broadband access and digital equity since the Office of Statewide Broadband was established in 2017. To date, over $270 million has been invested in broadband infrastructure and related programs, bringing high-speed internet to more than 180,000 previously unserved homes and businesses across the state. The current phase represents the final stage of the state’s broadband deployment efforts, with the goal of achieving 100% build-out and connecting every Marylander to high-speed internet by 2030. Residents can find more information about Connect Maryland, the BEAD program, and other related initiatives by visiting dhcd.maryland.gov/Broadband.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Office of Governor Wes Moore.

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