Increasing Broadband Availability, Accessibility, and Affordability for the Benefit of All Utahns

The relationship between broadband and other priorities for Utahns—such as employment, education, health, civic engagement, technology innovation, and entrepreneurship—is undeniably important and will only become increasingly so. Broadband infrastructure deployment and adoption are key components for accomplishing economic growth, accelerating educational innovation, expanding access to health care, and increasing personal connection. The State of Utah wants to ensure every resident has access to reliable and affordable broadband internet to enhance their quality of life. Utah's goal is to strategically use Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program funds in conjunction with other state, federal, educational, or non-profit programs to take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to narrow and close the digital divides in the state. According to the Federal Communications Commission's National Broadband Map, there are still approximately 41,559 unserved locations (with available speeds less than 25 Mbps download/3 Mbps upload) and 28,108 underserved locations (with available speeds less than 100 Mbps download/20 Mbps upload) throughout Utah as of October 24, 2023. These unserved locations are primarily rural and, the Utah Broadband Center posits, are arguably the most expensive to build and maintain. One key reason for Utahns not subscribing to broadband service is affordability.