Arkansas
The state cited Arkansas’s $500 million broadband investment, low taxes and aggressive connectivity expansion as reasons for choosing it.
HOT SPRINGS, Ark., June 26, 2024 – The Arkansas Broadband Office highlighted Arkansas’ position as a leading hub for broadband investment at the Arkansas Broadband Summit on Tuesday and called for continued collaboration and investment in the state’s broadband future.
The department highlighted the significant investment of over $500 million from infrastructure grants in the state since 2020, driven by relocation, lower taxes and aggressive connectivity enhancements. These efforts aim to establish Arkansas as a leader in broadband infrastructure within a strategic and business-friendly environment.
“In late 2023, these investments have placed Arkansas as the state with the sixth-highest rate of declines in unserved and underserved locations in the nation since 2020,” the director of the Arkansas Broadband Office said. Glenn Howie“This shows we are moving forward and are willing to act quickly in response to business urgency.”
Howie encouraged broadband investors to consider Arkansas to meet their business needs and emphasized the firm’s mission to assist those looking to invest, expand or relocate. He said partnering with the firm will benefit businesses and ensure a supportive environment through strategic initiatives and connectivity efforts.
The office is meeting weekly with providers to provide technical assistance, maintain transparency and gather feedback throughout the process. This collaborative approach and commitment to efficiency demonstrates the state’s focus on effective broadband deployment. “Our relationships with providers and our team’s efforts to minimize bureaucracy allow us to work effectively,” Howie said.
Co-Founder, Quadra Partners John Wikkins He said there is about $20 billion available in Broadband Equitable Access and Deployment Program funds within a 500-mile radius of Arkansas, making the region critical for broadband investment. “Arkansas is ready to receive BEAD funds with a good plan and established offices,” he said, noting that early-stage states like Arkansas will attract providers because of their preparedness and favorable business climate.
Arkansas BEAD Program Volume 2The BEAD program outlines how states will implement the program and is awaiting approval from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. NTIA officials aim to have all Volume 2 applications approved by this fall.
Arkansas is preparing an applicant primer, a guide to help potential applicants understand the requirements and steps for participating in BEAD. The document is expected to be released in August and will include details on the rules for bidding, reference grants, how to use the map, and an explanation of the application portal.
If the Challenge Map process is delayed, the Office will still release the primer on time and adjust with reference grant supplements as needed to ensure a timely release regardless of completion of location data.
“Because our plans are based on a formula, they can fluctuate over time. As the economy improves and people’s incomes increase, rates can go up,” Howie said as he elaborated on the low-cost requirement.He assured that all internet service providers applying within Arkansas must offer low-cost plan options as part of the affordability requirements of the BEAD program.
