Broadband Program

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The Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) recognizes that provision of high-speed broadband services can play a critical role in enhancing local government operations and community development efforts. DOLA recognizes that local governments can play a role assisting public institutions and private businesses, as well as local citizens, to gain access to reliable broadband service at affordable costs. Such locally initiated actions can be undertaken under local authority to enhance economic development, improve distance learning opportunities, promote inter-jurisdictional communication, and improve health care delivery and to meet citizens’ requests for better access to the breadth of services available over broadband. DOLA has earmarked $5 million in Energy Impact Assistance Fund (EIAF) monies each year starting in FY 2019 to assist in such local government efforts, subject to certain conditions. EIAF grants are directed by statute to communities that are economically or socially impacted by the development of energy and mineral resources. Grants are also awarded based on financial need, among other review criteria. Therefore, the majority of grant funding is directed to smaller and more rural communities where sufficient broadband service is lacking.

Energy Impact Grants for broadband are made available to support two general areas – planning and provision of infrastructure.

Please contact your Regional Manager for additional information.