N.J. Board 'Not the Enemy' in Broadband Effort, Says Mayor

State and local coordination will be key to covering New Jersey with broadband, said government officials at the state’s internet-for-all workshop Monday. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) will be the "gatekeepers on where this money goes throughout the state, and if we don't work with them, that means some other states are getting our money,” said Piscataway Township Mayor Brian Wahler (D) at the partially virtual event. The New Jersey League of Municipalities past president stressed the need for a good relationship. “Work with the BPU for once,” he urged local governments. “They're not the enemy, they're actually going to be the saviors here to get the broadband to us.” BPU Broadband Director Valarry Bullard said “2023 is the year of planning,” which “requires a commitment from all industries.” High-speed internet is new to the BPU, acknowledged Chief of Staff Taryn Boland. "We've traditionally been focused on gas, electric, water, telco and cable, and now we are dipping our toes in the broadband water.” In its national role overseeing Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act broadband funding, NTIA will be looking for state plans that show coordination with local governments, noted Administrator Alan Davidson in recorded remarks: "It is local community leaders ... who will know best how to solve this problem.”