Puerto Rico Broadband Program seeks comment on 2nd part of proposal
The Puerto Rico Broadband Program, established by Gov. Pedro Pierluisi, has released the second part of its “Initial Proposal” on its website for public comment, announced Enrique Völckers-Nin, the program’s executive director.
This second volume, along with the four requirements outlined in the first volume, will serve as a draft for Puerto Rico’s deployment plan using Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program (BEAD) funding to provide reliable and affordable high-speed internet to the island’s residents.
“After the publication of the first volume of the proposal on September 15, today we repeat the same exercise with the second part, so that citizens, as well as entities, can access the document and continue to submit their comments,” said the official. “This period will be available for the next 30 days. Your participation is of the utmost importance for the success of this project, which will benefit all of Puerto Rico.”
The new document covers long-term objectives for broadband deployment, addressing the digital gap, access issues, affordability, equity, adoption, and fostering economic growth and job creation.
The BEAD funds will focus on underground telecommunications conduits, affordable device programs, digital literacy and digital government services.
The Puerto Rico Broadband Program is responsible for managing both local and federal broadband funds, including $334.6 million in federal BEAD funds for Puerto Rico from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, to enhance broadband infrastructure and digital inclusion across Puerto Rico.
