The Arkansas State Broadband Office released its final proposal for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program and opened a public comment period through August 29. The $1 billion initiative is the largest broadband investment in state history and aims to deliver universal high-speed internet coverage.
The program drew 730 applications from 33 internet service providers, with 23 providers chosen for preliminary awards. The process secured service for more than 79,000 homes and businesses at an average cost of $3,891 per location, one of the lowest figures nationwide. Nearly all eligible locations attracted multiple bids, allowing for full statewide coverage.
The proposal also includes adjustments required by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. These changes reduce Arkansas’s BEAD grant outlay to $308.3 million. Under the plan, 76% of locations will be connected with fiber, 16% with low-Earth-orbit satellite, 7% with licensed fixed wireless, and 1% with hybrid technologies.
Pending NTIA and legislative approval, construction will begin in the first half of 2026.