MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs has opened a seven-day public comment period for the state’s final Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program proposal. The proposal is set to be submitted on September 18, 2025. Once approved, the plan will ensure internet connectivity for every eligible location in Alabama, extending broadband service to more than 101,090 locations statewide.
Governor Kay Ivey said the goal is to expand high-speed internet infrastructure across the state. She said her administration has worked with the Trump administration to help make the BEAD proposal cost effective, resulting in estimated savings of more than $800 million.
Since 2017, Governor Ivey, the Legislature, and ADECA have led efforts to increase broadband availability in unserved and underserved areas. This includes more than $87 million in state funds through the Broadband Accessibility Fund and additional federal funds for various programs. Once BEAD-funded projects are completed, Alabama will achieve full broadband coverage as defined by NTIA.