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H-GAC Broadband Survey
The recent infrastructure bill has allocated $42 billion to broadband infrastructure, and Texas is slated to receive $3.3 billion of this total in 2024 through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. Leaders in the region understand that broadband is a critical service for businesses, organizations, and citizens. Your voice matters. Residents and businesses in the region are encouraged to take the broadband survey available at the link below to provide input that helps pinpoint broadband access and adoption challenges and will help develop action plans to successfully capture funding for our region's broadband improvement.
High-speed internet connectivity means increased access to the online world. With an internet connection, people can access a telehealth appointment, work from home, or video chat with friends and family far away. Having access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet and having the skills to use it, can increase the quality of life and opportunity for Texans.
About H-GAC’s Regional Broadband Initiative
After hearing directly from the 13-county region we serve, H-GAC has compiled data and recommendations to support:
- Expanding access to high-speed internet and
- Increasing adoption or use of internet service or devices.
In partnership with the Texas Broadband Development Office and other industry leaders, our goal is to be a resource to the region as we work together to create a plan that addresses the needs and priorities of our community for the billions of dollars the state is receiving to bring internet connectivity to all residents.
Funding Opportunities
The Broadband Development Office (BDO) was established by the state legislature in 2021 to award grants, low-interest loans and other financial incentives to applicants seeking to expand access to and adoption of broadband service in designated areas determined to be eligible by the office.
Learn more about current and upcoming funding opportunities through BDO.
Upcoming Events
To learn more about your broadband needs and share helpful resources, we will be participating in and hosting community events throughout the region. Check out some of our past events below and join our mailing list to be notified first about any that are upcoming!
2023 Regional Broadband Summit
The purpose of public meetings is to develop the Texas Digital Opportunity Plan; a roadmap for achieving reliable and affordable broadband, high-quality device access, digital skills training, and cybersecurity awareness to expand digital opportunities for all Texans.
View the 2023 Regional Broadband Summit Materials
Texas Broadband Public Meetings
The Texas Broadband Development Office held several public meetings throughout the state of Texas in order to hear different perspectives on high-speed internet. They heard from local leaders, nonprofits and faith-based organizations, schools, businesses, agriculture, industry, and local residents with the purpose of developing the Texas Digital Opportunity Plan; a roadmap for achieving reliable and affordable broadband, high-quality device access, digital skills training, and cybersecurity awareness to expand digital opportunities for all Texans.
More public meetings may be coming down the pipeline. Make sure your voice is heard and stay up-to-date on upcoming events by clicking the button above and joining our mailing list.
Additional Tools & Resources
FCC National Broadband Map
The FCC requires local input to update and revitalize the broadband map. If you believe you do not have sufficient high-speed internet, please challenge your locale on the National Broadband Map.
View the FCC National Broadband Map
2020 Regional High-Speed Internet Strategy
The Regional High-Speed Internet Strategy provides a roadmap for local governments seeking to expand access to high-speed internet, also known as broadband, in the Houston-Galveston region.
2018 Regional Gap Analysis
Whether it’s for business, education, or personal use, high-speed internet service, or broadband, is increasingly must-have infrastructure for communities and residents. The Gulf Coast Economic Development District’s (GCEDD) Regional Gaps in High-Speed Internet Services Report outlines the challenges the 13-county Houston-Galveston region faces in closing current gaps in broadband service, as well as potential solutions.