BEAD Program Impact Assessment for Washington

This technical report presents an assessment of the BEAD Program's impact on broadband availability in Washington State. It outlines the number of unserved and underserved locations eligible for BEAD funding, indicating that approximately 293,000 locations lack high-speed broadband access as of June 2023, which is higher than the state/territory average. The report details the estimated total capital available for broadband deployment, which amounts to $1.8 billion, combining BEAD funding and estimated provider match. It discusses various deployment scenarios, including baseline and maximum fiber deployment strategies, and their implications for reaching eligible locations. The report also highlights the estimated provider match per location and the overall average cost of deployment. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for Washington to decide on the extent of fiber deployment while considering the balance between maximizing fiber coverage and retaining funds for other eligible programs. The findings serve as a foundation for strategic decision-making regarding broadband expansion in the state.