Indiana making waves on bridging broadband gap

While Indiana continues to battle the digital divide–the gap between those who have and don’t have broadband access–there are significant signs of progress. State and federal funds totaling nearly $1.5 billion are being deployed to help connect the estimated 150,000 unserved or underserved Hoosier addresses. Private sector companies are also getting engaged, including AT&T, which is in the midst of fiber projects in 12 Indiana communities and regions, and it’s all part of what some are calling a once in a generation opportunity. Purdue University Vice President for Engagement Roberto Gallardo said if someone is on the wrong side of the digital divide, it impacts their quality of life. There are signs, however, that Indiana is moving the needle when it comes to connectivity. According to the Indiana Broadband Office, there were around 300,000 unserved or underserved addresses in Indiana three years ago. Today, that number is closer to 150,000. Now, with Indiana’s $868 million allocation from the federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program, the state is at a tipping point.