Utah Broadband Center
Advances in economic opportunity, energy efficiency, telecommuting, education, and telehealth rely on broadband infrastructure. We work with broadband providers, local, state, and federal policymakers, consumers, community institutions, and other stakeholders to support broadband deployment throughout the state, improve efficiencies and expand statewide access and usage (Utah Code 63N-17).
Since 2010, our office has collaborated with the Utah Geospatial Resource Center to develop and maintain up-to-date and accurate statewide maps of available broadband and statewide economic opportunity resources.
The state endorses a broadband plan to increase deployment, bandwidth, adoption, digital inclusion, and literacy across the state to businesses, educational anchor institutions, libraries, healthcare centers, tribes, and other entities. Broadband is crucial to local and global economies and our connection to the world.
National Telecommunications and Information Administration Programs
Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program
$42.5 billion
State Digital Equity Act (DE) Program
$1.5 billion
Utah Broadband Advisory Commission
The Utah Broadband Center Advisory Commission was created legislatively during the 2022 General Session (Utah Code §29-36-109). The Commission is tasked with making recommendations to the Center regarding the state’s broadband digital connectivity plan development and the application for and use of broadband infrastructure funds. The funding sources can include:
- Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Pub. L. No. 115-58
- Legislative appropriations
- State and federal grants
The Commission solicits input from relevant stakeholders, including public and private entities, who may assist in developing and implementing the strategic plan. It also provides recommendations and changes based on a review of strategic plan drafts.
Utah Broadband Alliance
Created in 2011, the Utah Broadband Alliance coordinates the collaborative statewide effort on broadband adoption and deployment efforts. Members of the council represent a diverse group of interests, including legislators, economic opportunity, state and local government, healthcare, education, libraries, public safety, and tribal entities.
The Utah Broadband Alliance hosts quarterly in-person meetings and virtual monthly calls.
