BEAD Program Framework for Broadband Funding in Louisiana

This technical report outlines the BEAD Program's framework for allocating funding aimed at improving broadband availability in Louisiana. It provides an assessment of eligible locations that lack high-speed broadband as of June 2023, indicating that 18% of locations are unserved compared to the state average of 9%. The report details the estimated funding allocated to Louisiana, which is $1.4 billion, exceeding the state average of $743 million. It also discusses the total capital available, estimated at $1.8 billion, which combines BEAD funding and provider matches. The document presents deployment scenarios, highlighting the capital costs associated with reaching unserved and underserved locations. It concludes that Louisiana is well-positioned to utilize the available funding to achieve high-speed broadband access for all eligible locations, with a focus on maximizing fiber deployment while considering alternative technologies where necessary. The report emphasizes the importance of strategic funding allocation to ensure comprehensive broadband coverage.