Broadband Director: The Challenges are Bigger in Texas

Texas’ Broadband Development Office Director Greg Conte explains why $3.3 billion in Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) funding might not be as appealing as it sounds. “Receiving $3.3 billion is great, but with that comes a lot of responsibility, said Conte. “There’s a lot of attention on Texas as we have a significant amount of unserved and under-served homes, businesses, community anchor institutions. So, while there’s pressure from our citizens, we’re also under a significant amount of pressure from the NTIA to get the planning out the door so we can start getting money on the streets.” Conte and his team are working hard to ensure processes are streamlined, applicant evaluations are expedited, and funding is ready for shovels to go into the ground in early- to mid-2025. There’s a lot to accomplish as one out of every four Texans is on the wrong side of the digital divide.“It’s important that all Texans have access to affordable internet, so fixed wireless will probably be needed to help to connect people,” explains Conte. “We are following the program, we understand the guidelines, but at the same time we are committed to getting Texans connected.”