States eyeing broadband money from economic stimulus package

States and localities across the country are beginning to assess their broadband gaps, hoping to tap into the  $7.2 billion in federal funding for high-speed Internet expansion in the economic stimulus bill. Speed Matters will keep you updated as we learn more about the grantmaking process and plans in states and communities.

In Missouri one in five residents live in areas without access to broadband Internet connections according to a 2007 study commissioned by the Missouri rural broadband task force.

David Kindt who served on the task force said:

"We don't need to build just for today. We need to look into the future. We should make sure the infrastructure is able to handle things for the next few years down the road."

Another task force member, Bill Mitchell, is calling for more detailed mapping of the parts of Missouri that cannot get access to high speed Internet. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act includes $350 million for the previously passed Broadband Data Improvement Act, which provides grants to states for broadband data collection and setting up community technology planning teams.

Federal stimulus could expand Mo. Rural broadband (Associated Press)

Economic Stiumulus package a victory for Speed Matters (Speed Matters)

President Bush signs Broadband Data Improvement Act (Speed Matters)