Governor Josh Green recently approved the use of $33 million in state funds to match the Broadband Equity Access and Development (BEAD) grant program.
The BEAD grant is part of a national $42.45 billion high-speed internet infrastructure program funding for 50 U.S. states and territories The grant will fund eight programs across the state.
Total funding for the BEAD program is expected to be a $205,091,121 with $144,484,493 coming from the federal government, $46,356,628 coming from state government, and $14,250,000 being made available from private and in-kind sources. It is expected that the Legislature will make available $13,356,628 this legislative session. These funds will be programmed once they are made available.
The statewide initiative focuses on building broadband infrastructure for “last mile” connections, aiming to deliver high-speed internet access to areas where such connections are currently unavailable. Moreover, the program aims to enhance service resiliency between internet service provider networks, homes, and Community Anchor Institutions (CAIs) in communities with unserved and underserved locations.
In a press release Governor Green said, “In an increasingly interconnected world, access to broadband is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity. The BEAD grant will advance our collective efforts to create a more inclusive and digitally empowered Hawai‘i.”
Governor Green also secured an additional appropriation of $13.3 million from the Legislature, which is pending final passage. This funding boost will bring the state’s match for the BEAD grant up to the requisite level of $46.3 million, ensuring Hawai‘i’s continued progress toward universal broadband access.
The BEAD grant is part of a national $42.45 billion high-speed internet infrastructure program funding for 50 U.S. states and territories.
