Indiana signs $400m+ BEAD contracts with 24 ISPs to connect 122,000 homes
Indiana has awarded more than $400 million in BEAD broadband contracts to 24 internet providers, with over 122,000 homes and businesses set to receive high-speed service and construction starting as early as this autumn.
Indiana will put more than $400 million of federal broadband funding to work after awarding Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) contracts to 24 internet service providers, Governor Mike Braun announced on 30 September.
More than 122,000 homes and businesses across the state — particularly in rural areas — are set to receive high-speed, reliable broadband service under the awards. Indiana and the Indiana Broadband Office received a total BEAD allocation of $868,109,929.79.
“In today’s world, broadband service isn’t a luxury, it is a necessity – and now, we are moving as efficiently and effectively as we can to make universal service a reality,” Braun said. “These homes and businesses, especially those in the most rural parts of our state, will finally have access to reliable service for everyday tasks such as remote work, telehealth and schoolwork, helping to ensure every Hoosier can succeed.”
Under the programme, each ISP must contribute at least 25 per cent of project costs in matching funds; Indiana’s providers exceeded that, putting up more than $300 million of their own money.
Construction on some projects could begin as early as this autumn, with all buildouts due to finish by the end of 2030. Earlier this month, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration released a Supplemental Deployment Policy Notice allowing states to hold a second round of BEAD applications for locations left out of the first round, moving Indiana closer to full coverage.
Sources: Broadband Breakfast · Boone County Daily News
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