June 2023

Welcome

Welcome to the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) newsletter! Read on for the latest updates and news from the PBDA on grant opportunities, deadlines, and upcoming opportunities to engage in broadband efforts across the Commonwealth.

Our newsletter is switching to a monthly distribution! As BEAD launches and the Capital Projects Fund – Broadband Infrastructure Program issues awards, more things are happening to close the gap on internet for all.

man in suit stands at podium with slide presentation facing room of people sitting at tables

PBDA Deputy Director, Brandon Peters, presents on the upcoming BEAD program to Bedford County leaders and internet service providers.

Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program – Period 1 Applications Open Soon

The application window for BEAD’s $1.16 billion in funding is opening this fall. Guidelines were approved at the September 19, 2024, board meeting. You can review BEAD guidelines and Broadband Serviceable Areas (BSAs) on the PBDA BEAD Program Page. Here is the current, estimated timeline:

September 2024: Preliminary list of Broadband Serviceable Areas* established. Program guidelines, application templates, recorded webinars, and application FAQs posted on BEAD Program page.
October 2024: Final list of BEAD eligible locations announced and Period 1 applications open.
December 2024: Period 1 of BEAD applications close.
January 2025: BEAD Period 1 application review.
February 2025: BEAD Period 1 provisional awards announced. BEAD Period 2 applications open.
April 2025: BEAD Period 2 applications close. Period 2 application review.
May 2025: Period 2 provisional awards announced. Draft of Final Proposal.

*Broadband Serviceable Areas are areas within Pennsylvania containing one or more Census Block Groups with Broadband Serviceable Locations (BSLs) eligible for BEAD funding.

Capital Projects Fund Program

Multi-Purpose Community Facilities (Facilities) Program

We are reviewing applications for the $45 million Facilities grant program for community anchor institutions and local governments. Awards are expected in October. We appreciate applicants’ patience while we finalize determinations. Check the Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program Page for updates.

Digital Connectivity Technology (Technology) Program

Applications closed on August 19 for the $20 million Technology grant program that will award laptops to eligible entities. We received 135 applications, which are now in review. More information is available on the Digital Connectivity Technology Program page.

Board & Sub-Committee Meetings

October 10, 2024: Board Meeting
October 10, 2024: BEAD Program Office Hours Session 1
October 24, 2024: Outreach & Education Sub-committee
November 12, 2024: BEAD Program Office Hours Session 2
December 11, 2024: Data & Mapping Sub-committee
December 11, 2024: BEAD Program Office Hours Session 3

All PBDA Board meetings and Sub-Committee meetings are open to the public and always allow for public comment.

Questions?

If you have questions about closing the digital divide in Pennsylvania, email the
PA Broadband Development Authority or connect with us by phone
at 1.866.466.3972.

Department of Community & Economic Development | dced.pa.gov

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