What Makes a Community ‘Unserved’ or ‘Underserved’ by Broadband?

States use a range of internet speeds to define the various levels of service

Speeches and Testimony Read time:
Projects: Broadband Access
What Makes a Community 'Underserved' by Broadband?

On May 3, 2023 The Pew Charitable Trusts sent a memo to state broadband offices that are participating in Pew’s broadband education and training initiative, which compared states’ statutory definitions of “unserved” and “underserved” areas. The memo also explained why states may need to authorize their broadband offices to adjust these definitions to account for the recent influx of federal funding.

Downloads What Makes a Community ‘Unserved’ or ‘Underserved’ by Broadband? (PDF)
Speeches and Testimony
Projects: Broadband Access
Topics: Infrastructure & U.S. State Policy
Experts: Kathryn de Wit & Jake Varn
Places: United States
Related Experts
Kathryn de Wit Project Director
Broadband Access Initiative
Jake Varn
Jake Varn Associate Manager
Broadband Access Initiative

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Technical Broadband Assistance to States

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As unprecedented broadband funding flows to states as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the American Rescue Plan Act, delivering high-speed internet access to all Americans has never been more achievable. But the opportunity before state leaders comes with significant challenges. Policymakers must establish or expand broadband programs, train staff, and navigate local priorities, all while adhering to federal requirements.

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