Article Summary –
Wisconsin plans to allocate $60 million to expand broadband access in areas unserved by federal programs, using funds from the State Broadband Expansion Grant Program. These efforts, supported by the Wisconsin Public Service Commission and Gov. Tony Evers, aim to provide high-speed internet to at least 30,000 underserved locations and improve internet access for more than 410,000 homes and businesses statewide. Despite prior successes, concerns have been raised about federal guidance changes under the Trump administration, which shifted funding preferences to lower-quality, less reliable technologies compared to fiber.
The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin and Gov. Tony Evers unveiled a $60 million plan to boost broadband access in areas not served by a federal initiative. Organizations, telecom utilities, or municipalities can apply for grants from the State Broadband Expansion Grant Program by July 27. These funds target locations lacking 100/20 Mbps internet speeds and bypassed by the federal Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment Program, according to a news release from Evers’ office.
Evers emphasized high-speed internet as essential for education, work, and connectivity in the 21st Century, stating the initiative aims to close the digital divide, making reliable, affordable broadband accessible to all Wisconsinites. The Wisconsin Broadband Office notes at least 30,000 locations remain without federal support, needing grants for improved connectivity. The $60 million derives from the Universal Service Fund and unused state broadband grant funds.
More than $345 million in state and federal investments have expanded broadband in Wisconsin since 2019, enhancing internet access for over 410,000 homes and businesses, as Evers’ office reports. Summer Strand, commission chair, stated Wisconsin’s broadband expansion has been successful but should continue. “These investments in robust technology and infrastructure drive internet adoption, affordability, and future readiness,” Strand said.
The Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment Program originated from the Biden-era Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Local leaders previously highlighted government subsidies’ crucial role in delivering reliable broadband to rural areas. Late last year, Wisconsin secured federal approval to unlock over $1 billion in broadband funding. Construction for this initiative is scheduled to commence this summer.
However, Evers’ office criticized a Trump administration change that redirected funds from high-quality fiber technology to less reliable alternatives, following 2025 guidance. The Trump-era guidance, which argued for cost-effective and quicker deployment options, led to investments in technologies with shorter lifespans and lower performance, Evers’ release noted.
—
Read More Wisconsin News
