Broadband is among Baltimore's priorities for American Rescue Plan funding distribution

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott laid out the priorities and process for distributing the $641 million Baltimore City will receive as part of the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to the community. Broadband and small businesses figure to play a key role in the plans. With the investment in broadband, Baltimore City is further prioritizing internet connectivity at a time when the City’s yawning digital divide is more acute as the world is increasingly virtual in a pandemic. It follows Scott’s appointment in early 2021 of Jason Hardebeck for the new City position of director of broadband and digital equity. It is likely to add to the big investment of $400 million in ARPA and state funds being allocated through the Connect Maryland initiative. Specifics weren’t detailed just yet, but Scott said the first round of awards will be distributed in September and October 2021.