The U.S. Department of Treasury has given its approval for New Jersey's plan to allocate over $50 million from the Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund to enhance broadband infrastructure throughout the state. This funding will be used for the New Jersey Broadband Infrastructure Deployment Equity (NJBIDE) pilot program, which is a competitive grant initiative aimed at providing high-speed internet access in areas that currently lack adequate service.
"This exciting program reflects New Jersey’s commitment to improving digital equity, especially in communities that have been historically underserved," said Christine Guhl-Sadovy, President of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU). "The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role that high-speed internet plays in everyday life, and this initiative will ensure that more New Jerseyans can access the tools they need for work, education, healthcare, and more."
The NJBIDE Notice of Funding Availability was published on November 18 in the New Jersey Register. Applications opened on November 18, 2024, and will close on January 31, 2025. Eligible entities include co-operatives, for-profit providers, local government units, non-profit organizations, and utilities.
This investment represents 26% of New Jersey’s CPF allocation and aims to provide reliable internet service to approximately 28,216 residents across the state. The pilot program will focus on projects investing in fiber-optic infrastructure solutions with internet speeds of 100/100 Mbps upon completion and offering at least one low-cost option for communities.
As sanctioned by the U.S. Department of Treasury, priority will be given to broadband infrastructure deployment projects in Atlantic, Burlington, Cumberland, Essex, Salem, and Warren counties. These areas have notable broadband gaps including rural and economically disadvantaged regions where high-speed internet is essential for connecting people to jobs, online education services like telemedicine.
The New Jersey Office of Broadband Connectivity has developed an interactive map for applicants to identify priority areas meeting federal standards. This tool aids in creating project proposals addressing the state's most urgent broadband needs.
For further details about the NJBIDE program or to access application instructions visit the website of the New Jersey Office of Broadband Connectivity.
