Texas Begins Planning Process to Expand Statewide Broadband Access

The Texas Department of Agriculture and the Public Utility Commission have announced that, together, they are taking steps to extend broadband Internet access to all Texans.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 appropriated $7.2 billion in grants to expand high-speed Internet, a portion of which the two state agencies hope to secure.

They have issued a request for information to contractors requesting input on strategies to identify and target areas that are either underserved or unserved by broadband providers.

"It is an important opportunity to bring broadband service to areas that do not have this valuable service today," says Barry Smitherman, the Chairman of the Public Utility Commission.

"New communication technologies are shrinking our world, and it is essential we make sure Texans don't miss out on these new tech tools," Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples says. "Expanding broadband service is key to creating opportunities and efficiencies for all Texans, from private citizens and businesses to healthcare and education."

The request for information, which expires May 15, will assist the agencies as they prepare to move forward.

Texas launches effort to extend broadband statewide (San Antonio Business Journal)

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

Broadband Request for Information (Texas Department of Agriculture)