BPD submits initial BEAD proposals to NTIA
In a significant step forward in bridging the digital divide, the Broadband Policy & Development Office, established through the CNMI Office of the Governor, has officially submitted both of the Broadband, Equity, Accessibility, and Development program’s Initial Proposal Volume 1 and Initial Proposal Volume 2 to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.
On Dec. 5, 2023, Initial Proposal Volume 1 was officially submitted, well ahead of NTIA’s Dec. 27, 2023 deadline. Following suit, Initial Proposal Volume 2 was officially submitted on Dec. 19, 2023, showcasing the BPD’s commitment to timely and comprehensive broadband policy development within the CNMI.
Both initial proposals underwent diligent revisions based on invaluable pre-review comments from the NTIA and public input during the 30-day comment period. The comments, presented by local and global stakeholders, provided valuable insights, helping shape the proposals to meet the NTIA’s rigorous standards. Both proposals are currently undergoing a curing process, managed by the NTIA, that involves addressing any missing documents, resolving application deficiencies, and providing final guidance. This process ensures that both Initial Proposals continuously meet the NTIA’s standards set forth for the BEAD program. The BPD anticipates NTIA’s approval post-curing, allowing the team to progress further into the BEAD program process.
The BPD conducts a weekly virtual meeting every Friday at 3pm, ensuring all stakeholders are updated with the BPD’s updates and developments. The meeting link can be accessed on the BPD’s website, bpd.cnmi.gov. The public is highly encouraged to join if interested. (PR)
BPD
