Idaho broadband task force delivers recommendations to Gov. Little

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The Idaho Broadband Task Force that Governor Brad Little assembled earlier this year has completed and submitted its recommendations and full report to improve broadband connectivity for communities and businesses across the Gem State.

Governor Little signed an executive order in May establishing the task force, directing the group to develop a plan to improve broadband access, speed, and infrastructure across Idaho. Over the past six months, the task force worked to come up with actionable recommendations to improve broadband level connectivity in both rural and urban Idaho.

The panel’s recommendations include updating the state’s broadband plan for maximizing federal funds; establishing a state broadband office; formalizing “dig once and hang once” policies for substantially lowering investment costs; and some specific calls to action in some of the most underserved rural areas. Ongoing regional activities are also planned for the near term.

According to the Idaho Department of Commerce, broadband coverage is good in Idaho’s most urbanized areas, with – for example – coverage at 99 percent in Boise; 95 percvent in Nampa; and 93 percent in Pocatello.

But small towns and rural areas have far lower figures, with Grangeville, Orofino, St. Maries, and Spirit Lake all coming in at zero; and Kamiah at 24 percent.

Little will review the recommendations and determine which ones will be included in his budget and policy recommendations for the 2020 legislative session.

The broadband task force is comprised of internet service providers, satellite providers, cellular providers, and other industry experts along with university, tribal, legislative, state, county, and municipal representatives. (Idaho Gov. Little’s Office)

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