Network

Plus, the U.S. Census Bureau makes its 2020 count data related to redistricting available in an easier to read format, a Los Angeles digital equity program offers a new IT certificate, and more.

West Virginia continues preparations for investing $138 million in federal American Rescue Plan funds committed to broadband Internet expansion by accurately mapping statewide availability, or lack thereof.

The private cellular network company has partnered with cities such as Tucson, Ariz., to establish and manage new 5G/LTE networks to close the digital divide and give schools control over their users.

An interim rule from the U.S. Treasury Department may prevent cities from using federal coronavirus relief funds on broadband expansion efforts. A final rule could be determined in the fall.

As they responded to the terrorist attacks on 9/11, public safety professionals struggled to communicate with each other due to tech issues. Twenty years later, FirstNet exists to ensure this doesn't happen again.

Earlier this week, Internet service providers were able to start applying for the Ohio Residential Broadband Expansion Grant Program, which will distribute $250 million in grants. Applications must be filed by Nov. 8.

Plus, Ohio broadband program is now accepting grants; a new report examines the role of libraries nationwide in closing the digital divide; and New York extends the deadline for a fintech innovation challenge.

Researchers hope to turn the 400-acre Discovery Park District into a research incubator for 6G smart city technology of tomorrow, in collaboration with university and industry partners creating next-generation networks.

Gov. Janet Mills announced $128 million in federal funding will be used by the Maine Connectivity Authority to expand broadband. The funding for this investment comes from the American Rescue Plan.

It looks as if Comcast Xfinity may get some competition for cable subscribers in Morgantown, W.V., where the city council will take up a cable franchise agreement with Atlantic Broadband this month.

The commissioners of Butler County, Ohio, have heard a $4 million proposal to bring high-speed Internet to 2,700 locations in rural parts of the county. The project would be led by an electric cooperative.

Thanks to a program created by the Alachua County Library District in Florida, library cardholders can check out Wi-Fi hot spots with no fees. Currently, the district has 200 hot spots that residents can use.

The Hermon Town Council in Maine wants an outside firm to conduct a security review of its Internet network, which is run by the school district, whose IT manager was a co-founder of the service provider.

Consolidated Communications, a company that provides broadband in more than 20 states, has kicked off a new fiber network project in Manchester, N.H. The company has multiple similar projects throughout the state.

Fiber Internet is on its way to Spring Creek, fulfilling a promise made two years ago by CC Communications, which has a lengthy history in Nevada, starting with telegraph services in 1889 with a $975 check.

Plus, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration establishes two new offices aimed at strengthening U.S. broadband, and the California Public Utilities Commission is investing in digital equity.

The COVID-19 pandemic heightened the need to address the digital divide in the Los Angeles area. However, it also led to funding and collaboration opportunities for government agencies to combat the issue.

The Federal Communications Commission is considering a $5.1 million fine against two far-right operatives responsible for a robocall campaign that intended to discourage Black citizens from voting last year.