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Regional Broadband Study Report
Discover the key insights and outcomes from the Regional Broadband Study, highlighting the current state of internet access in our region and the strategies being developed to improve connectivity for all communities. The report includes the feedback collected from residents, businesses, and other stakeholders during our public meetings and survey process, offering a detailed roadmap for bridging the digital divide. Click the button below and learn more about:
- The current state of broadband access in the Houston-Galveston region.
- Key challenges and barriers to achieving equitable internet access.
- Community feedback gathered through surveys and public meetings.
- Strategies and recommendations for improving connectivity in underserved areas.
- Next steps in our plan to bridge the digital divide and promote digital equity.
While the data and charts found within the study capture a snapshot of the broadband environment from 2023-2024, the insights gathered remain a valuable foundation for understanding broadband needs and challenges moving forward. This information will continue to inform key strategies and decisions, even as the data is updated to reflect current trends. To keep you informed, we have created a webpage where the data will be regularly updated and refreshed to show the evolving state of broadband in our region. Click the ‘Regional Broadband Development Data’ button below for the most up-to-date information.
Texas BEAD Challenge Period
Register to Challenge NOW through November 26, 2024.
Challenge Period: December 3–December 17, 2024
Help secure broadband access for underserved areas across Texas. If your area or organization is not represented on the current Federal Communications Commission (FCC) National Broadband Map, preregistration is essential to become eligible for the Texas BEAD Map Challenge. Only preregistered parties can submit challenges to correct map inaccuracies—ensuring that eligible areas have a chance to access critical funding.
Areas not shown as eligible on the FCC map will be ineligible for funding unless successfully challenged.
Additional Dates to Be Aware of:
- Primary Eligibility List Release: November 26, 2024
- Final Eligibility List: To be released after FCC approves the challenge following the challenge period.
- NOFO (Notice of Funding Opportunity): Expected to be released Spring 2025.
For general inquiries, contact Darryl Briscoe at [email protected].
For more detailed/technical inquiries, visit the Texas Broadband Development Office website.
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!
H-GAC Broadband Survey
Thank you to everyone who participated in the 2023-2024 Regional Broadband Survey. Your feedback has been invaluable in shaping the future of broadband access in our region. The survey is now closed, and results have been incorporated into the Regional Broadband Study Report.
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.