What Is The Vision for Missouri’s Future in Rural Broadband Expansion?

January 15, 2025

Missouri has been making significant strides in expanding rural broadband under the leadership of BJ Tanksley, who has been at the helm of the Missouri Broadband Office since 2022. Tanksley’s extensive background in advocating for rural broadband, particularly through his work with the Missouri Farm Bureau, has been instrumental in shaping the state’s broadband initiatives. The Missouri Office of Broadband Development, established in 2017, initially operated with a modest budget but has seen substantial growth in recent years, thanks to federal funding. Tanksley’s vision for the future of rural broadband expansion in Missouri encompasses increased connectivity, comprehensive coverage, and meticulous strategic planning.

The Evolution of Missouri’s Broadband Funding

The Missouri Office of Broadband Development started with a $5 million budget for rural broadband projects. This budget has since expanded to $400 million through funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This significant increase in funding has allowed the state to undertake more ambitious projects and aim for broader coverage. The substantial funding amount of $1.7 billion earmarked for rural broadband expansion under the BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) program is a key focus. Tanksley emphasizes the goal of maximizing this allocation to ensure all BEAD-eligible locations in Missouri receive broadband connectivity, aiming for over 90% coverage with fiber broadband.

The injection of federal funds into Missouri’s broadband initiatives signifies a pivotal shift in the state’s capacity to address rural broadband needs comprehensively. This growth in budgetary resources has been matched by a strategic focus on leveraging these funds to cover as many rural areas as possible. The state has witnessed a transformative journey from modest beginnings to a robust framework capable of ambitious expansion plans. Tanksley’s leadership, coupled with federal support, marks a significant advancement in Missouri’s broadband narrative, positioning it for notable progress in the coming years.

Strategic Implementation of BEAD Funding

The Missouri Office of Broadband Development plans to implement the BEAD funding in two rounds. The first round’s application process will begin in late November and conclude in February, with subsequent rounds targeting areas not bid on initially. This phased approach ensures that all eligible locations are considered and that the funding is used efficiently. By structuring the implementation in stages, Missouri can meticulously monitor application flows, address concerns proactively, and refine the process for subsequent rounds to better serve the underserved areas.

A proactive approach has been adopted by the Missouri broadband office, encouraging providers to define their project areas. This strategy has resulted in over 1,500 project areas being created. While this method has increased the workload, it has also promoted provider engagement and ensured that the allocated dollars stretch further. Tanksley acknowledges the complexities and increased effort required but remains optimistic about the benefits of this inclusive method. Involving providers in defining coverage areas fosters a more collaborative environment, which can lead to innovative solutions and optimized use of funding.

Ensuring Comprehensive Coverage and Cost Management

To ensure no eligible location is left out, the state has expanded proposed project areas judiciously, avoiding cost overruns beyond 10%. This meticulous planning helps maintain the integrity of the project’s budget while striving to cover all eligible locations. By carefully assessing and expanding project areas, Missouri aims to strike a balance between comprehensive coverage and financial prudence, ensuring that resources are utilized effectively and all areas benefit from improved broadband connectivity.

Missouri’s decision regarding the extremely high-cost threshold for the BEAD program is another focal point. The state pre-emptively set an estimated threshold of around $18,000 per location across a project area. This decision directs fixed wireless providers to focus on areas where they are more likely to qualify for funding, aligning with the BEAD program’s prioritization of fiber or other high-reliability technologies unless costs exceed the threshold. By setting these thresholds in advance, Missouri aims to streamline the funding process and encourage providers to propose viable projects within the targeted budget parameters.

Navigating Political Landscapes and Future Outlook

Missouri has been making notable progress in expanding rural broadband under the leadership of BJ Tanksley, who has been at the forefront of the Missouri Broadband Office since 2022. Tanksley’s extensive experience in championing rural broadband, especially through his tenure at the Missouri Farm Bureau, has played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s broadband strategies. The Missouri Office of Broadband Development was set up in 2017 with a small budget but has experienced significant growth recently, largely due to federal funding. Tanksley’s vision for the future emphasizes not just increased connectivity but also comprehensive coverage and careful strategic planning. His leadership aims to ensure that rural areas in Missouri are not left behind in the digital age, focusing on bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth through better internet access. The state’s concerted efforts under Tanksley are geared towards creating a future where all Missourians, regardless of their location, can benefit from high-speed internet.

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