Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy and Governor Jeff Landry have announced that Louisiana is the first state in the U.S. to award federal Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding through its GUMBO 2.0 program. The initiative will distribute $1.355 billion to enhance broadband access statewide, expanding fiber optic connectivity to approximately 140,000 locations including households, small businesses, and community anchor institutions like schools and hospitals.

Senator Cassidy stated, "Access to high-speed internet is essential for every small business owner, student, and worker, and Louisiana is taking the lead in addressing this need." He expressed pride in his role in securing the funding and gratitude towards Governor Landry's swift action.

Governor Landry remarked on Louisiana's leadership in broadband deployment: "This historic investment in our state’s broadband infrastructure will transform communities across Louisiana." He acknowledged the efforts of the Louisiana Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity.

ConnectLA Executive Director Veneeth Iyengar emphasized the state's approach under Governor Landry's leadership: "The impact of this funding will ripple across every corner of our state."

The BEAD program from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration has provided $42.45 billion for expanding high-speed Internet access nationwide. This initiative aims at areas lacking adequate internet coverage based on updated maps.

Previously announced by Cassidy last year, this funding supports a $1.35 billion investment secured through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Only six other states with larger populations than Louisiana received more IIJA funding for broadband projects.

Cassidy also revealed an additional grant of over $12 million from NTIA to further improve internet access affordability in Louisiana.