Closing the Digital Divide: Broadband Expansion and Middle Mile

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) provides $65 billion for broadband investments across a variety of programs with the goal of connecting every American to high-speed, affordable internet. This Local Infrastructure Hub session focused on opportunities for cities and towns to apply for Middle Mile program funds and work with their states to access federal dollars to close the digital divide, support broadband infrastructure deployment and adoption, and advance digital equity.

The session featured several special guest speakers, including Mike Bloomberg; Andy Berke, Special Representative for Broadband at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration; and John Giles, Mayor of Mesa, Arizona.

Webinar Resources

5 winning strategies for improving broadband access through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (PDF)

Additional Resources from The Ford Foundation

The National Broadband Resource Hub is a philanthropic initiative empowering government and community leaders to build a better broadband future. Learn More.

Additional Resources from The Pew Charitable Trusts

Fact Sheets on How the Internet Works and Connections to Policy:

• Overview
• Overview of key technologies, providers and associated considerations (includes information on Middle Mile)
• Detailed explanation of connection between availability, affordability, and policy
• How the Internet gets built

Alternative Models to Deployment:

• Cooperatives
• IOUs — energy grids
• Regional utility districts

Memos to State Offices on Specific Issues:

• Working with local leaders
• The broadband workforce
• Data strategies
• Line extension programs
• Challenge processes

Helpful Links:

• An explanation of the complexities of affordability
• State office map
• Watch the Pew Charitable Trust’s “Broadband Access Summit”