Delaware Aims to Eradicate Broadband 'Deserts'

Delaware will build on its existing fiber network and a successful wireless broadband pilot with a Request For Proposals (RFP) aimed at eliminating so-called “broadband deserts” over the next 24 months. Gov. John Carney (D-DE) announced that the state will release an RFP in August seeking private-sector partners to expand wireless broadband in rural Kent and Sussex counties, and in “desert” areas. Delaware hopes to enhance economic development and improve educational opportunities — and in the latter case, eliminate a disconnect between retiring workers and unskilled labor that results in jobs going unfilled.  CIO James Collins said Delaware consistently has some of the fastest Internet connections in the nation and has been able to leverage the Delaware Broadband Fund, monetized through legislative negotiations during telecommunications deregulation, to fund a two-phase broadband pilot. In the first phase, the state used the fund to “incentivize providers” to serve rural areas, investing $1.5 million since 2015. Companies including Crown Castle have installed around 700 miles of fiber across the state. The pilot’s second phase in 2018 saw Maryland company Bloosurf deliver the Internet to residents in Seaford, Sussex County and unincorporated Marydel in Kent County, connecting around 50 subscribers via wireless broadband for the first time. The two counties are home to around 400,000 residents — nearly half the state’s population. The state will monetize the effort it’s initiating with the RFP with around $720,000 from the fund, as well as with local monies and around $1.3 million approved by the state Legislature, Collins said, describing it as a “perfect storm” of favorable timing and conditions. Low-cost broadband for low-income families will be prioritized, the state said.