Group: State BEAD Plans Can't Forget MDU Needs

Much of the U.S.' digital divide problem is concentrated in affordable housing, as residents there struggle with the cost of internet connectivity, as well as inadequate residential wiring and broadband infrastructure, EducationSuperHighway blogged this week. It said the return on investment for ISPs is much lower for multi-dwelling units (MDU) in public and affordable housing, meaning less incentive for ISPs to retrofit such housing or offer incentives. A number of states are trying to tackle MDU issues through BEAD nondeployment funds, the Capital Projects Fund or American Rescue Plan Act funds, it said. The group called on all states to ensure that their BEAD nondeployment funds include plans for MDU connectivity programs.