Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program

We need your help to challenge the new Federal Communications Commission broadband service location and availability maps.

The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) recently published new broadband maps to help determine how much federal funding states will receive to shore up gaps in internet service. These maps will determine how much funding Kansas receives. The federal broadband investment is part of the massive infrastructure package Congress passed last year. Grant money will be allocated to states based on the need for broadband services.

As part of the process, states, residents, cities, counties, businesses, etc. have the ability to challenge the accuracy of these maps. The map shares where internet coverage areas exist, the technology internet is delivered with (fiber/wireless/satellite/etc.) and where service gaps are perceived. However, metrics used are showing areas covered that might not be.

This map from the FCC will determine how much funding Kansas receives. Currently, the FCC shows KS at ~5% unserved. We are more likely closer to 15% unserved, and that difference will have a direct negative impact on the dollars we receive … potentially 100’s of millions of dollars! We can challenge/change this map, but it will take a strategic concerted effort across the state and through our networks.

Challenge Instructions as provided by Federal Program Officer, Melinda Stanley:

Point your browser to: https://broadbandmap.fcc.gov/home or use the buttons below

Locality Challenge

LOCALITY: Type in the address and select from the auto-generated location options.
When the map renders, verify that the locator dot is centered on the correct rooftop
If the locator dot is not on the correct rooftop, click on the “Location Challenge” link in the upper right corner of the map and type in the contact information and select the appropriate Challenge Type and any documentation if available.
Click Submit.

Service Availability Challenge

SERVICE AVAILABILITY: Check the Provider, Technology, and Speeds available at this address.
If any information is incorrect, click on “Availability Challenge” and select any of the providers that are incorrect.
Enter Challenge or Feedback, the contact information, and you may either describe your experience or upload a documentation image or file.
Click Submit.

You should receive a confirmation email from the FCC after you have successfully completed a challenge submission.

Chief Information Officer Mike Elpers shared this information to the Board of County Commissioners on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022, and walked through how to review your address and submit a challenge.

Additional Resources:

Kansas Office of Broadband Development - Challenge the Map

National Telecommunications and Information Administration - BEAD Frequently Asked Questions

Internet for All

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes a historic $42.5 billion investment to expand affordable and reliable high-speed Internet access in communities across the U.S. NTIA recently launched a series of new high-speed Internet grant programs funded by the law that will build high-speed Internet infrastructure across the country, create more low-cost high-speed Internet service options, and address the digital equity and inclusion needs in our communities.

Additionally, the Federal Communications Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Program provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward high-speed Internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Visit https://www.getinternet.gov for more information.

For more information on the Biden-Harris Administration’s high-speed Internet programs as well as quotes from the awardees, please visit InternetforAll.gov.