NTIA will focus on middle-mile broadband projects, and RUS will tar...

will be available in the second round, and revealed new rules based on comments collected in December (CD Dec 2 p2). The agencies released separate notices of funding availability so applicants may apply directly for either program, and they killed the two-step process for applicants to RUS’s Broadband Initiatives Program (BIP). The agencies will accept applications from Feb. 16 to March 15, and announce all awards by Sept. 30, they said. NTIA Administrator Larry Strickling said the changes make the application process “more user-friendly,” maximize the impact of investment, and streamline the review process. NTIA’s notice of funding availability provides $2.6 billion, including $2.35 billion for infrastructure projects. NTIA is adopting a “comprehensive communities” approach that prioritizes middle-mile projects that connect anchor institutions like libraries, hospitals and universities. NTIA plans to award at least $150 million for public computer center projects, and at least $100 million for adoption projects. RUS’s NOFA provides $2.2 billion for infrastructure projects. It will focus on last-mile projects, but will also fund middle-mile projects involving current RUS program participants. A “second funding window” at RUS “will open later which will provide grants for satellite service for premises that remain unserved after all other Recovery Act broadband funding is awarded, make Technical Assistance grants for developing plans using broadband for regional economic development, and grants to provide broadband service to rural libraries funded by USDA under the Recovery Act.” In the second round, RUS will not differentiate between remote and non-remote rural areas, and has adopted a base 75/25 mix of grants and loans for all projects. RUS may seek a waiver if additional grants are needed for hard-to-serve areas, and prioritize for applicants seeking lower grant levels. The RUS NOFA also provides a chance to reconsider BIP applications, and a “second application review process during which RUS would allow an applicant to adjust its application to better meet program objectives and for the Administrator to provide discretionary points or to increase a grant component to meet rural economic objectives.” The agencies will hold a series of public workshops around the country to review the new application process and answer questions. The Schools, Health and Libraries Broadband Coalition praised NTIA for its focus on anchor institutions. “Libraries, schools, health care providers, colleges and universities provide essential services to millions of people every day, and this funding will help build infrastructure that will create jobs, kick-start economic growth, and ultimately benefit residential and business consumers all across America.”