Digital Connectivity
Broadband is both an urban and rural issue
Rural communities lack adequate infrastructure while urban communities lag in subscription rates.
Broadband Service with Speeds of at least
25 Mbps Download/3 Mbps Upload
Source: Connected Nation
Broadband in Today’s Texas
Too many Texas communities are disconnected and experiencing unrealized education, health, and economic potential. COVID-19 exacerbated broadband disparities in Texas, highlighting the importance of connectivity to fully engage in modern civil society.
Three Pillars of a Sustainable Solution
1. State Broadband Plan
A plan recognized by the Governor as the official state broadband plan will assist in capitalizing on federal funding opportunities and establish a clear vision for broadband deployment across our state.
2. Dedicated Broadband Staff
To implement the plan and coordinate state action, the state should create a broadband office within an existing state agency. Dedicated broadband staff who understand the vision and technical aspects of broadband deployment will ensure infrastructure across the state is developed efficiently, both from a cost and time perspective.
3. Addressing Market Conditions
Certain communities in Texas do not provide a favorable business case for broadband development. By engaging with stakeholders, the state can adopt reforms that incentivize private investment in unserved and underserved communities.
2021 Digital Connectivity Policy Toolkit
Theme
Our Vision
Policy Tools
Planning
The state should create and adopt a formal broadband strategy. Today, the state lacks any formal plan for broadband access and adoption, limiting both federal funding and local efficiency.
Create/Adopt State Broadband Plan
Coordination
The state should create a broadband office or retain technically-trained staff in government dedicated to coordinating broadband strategies with stakeholders. Lack of coordination has created inefficiencies and major information gaps for broadband deployment.
Create State Broadband Office/Dedicate Staff
Market Incentives
Certain communities in Texas do not provide a favorable business case for broadband development. Texas 2036 is dedicated to engaging with stakeholders to identify reforms needed to incentivize private investment in unserved and underserved communities.
Incentives/Public-Private Partnerships
Funding
Funding will play a role in solving the digital divide in Texas. Texas 2036 is dedicated to working with stakeholders in developing the proper role of state funding for broadband development and digital connectivity.
Funding Streams/Revenue