Leveraging Middle Mile Infrastructure in BEAD to Accelerate Rural Broadband


The $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program represents an unprecedented opportunity to close the digital divide by bringing high-speed internet to unserved and underserved communities across America. While the priority of BEAD is funding last-mile connections directly to homes and businesses, experts agree that strategic investments in middle mile infrastructure will be critical to the program's success, especially in rural areas. 

What exactly is "middle mile" broadband infrastructure? It refers to the mid-section of the internet backbone that carries large amounts of data at high speeds over long distances between local networks and major interconnection points. Having robust middle mile networks in place is often a prerequisite to deploying last-mile infrastructure and providing affordable broadband service in remote regions.

So how can states effectively leverage BEAD funding to support middle mile projects that enable last-mile connectivity? Here are some key considerations:

1\. Provide evidence of demand and benefit - When applying for BEAD funds, states should demonstrate current demand for broadband in unserved areas and how investing in middle mile infrastructure will directly support last-mile deployments to reach end users. Don't neglect middle mile, but draw a clear through-line to last-mile goals.

2\. Identify opportunities to leverage existing assets - Building new middle mile fiber routes from scratch can be prohibitively expensive. Look for ways to utilize available public infrastructure and rights-of-way such as highways, railroads, and utility corridors. Explore partnerships with entities that may have unused fiber capacity.

3\. Form strategic partnerships - Coordination between state and local governments, regional utilities, tribal nations, telecom providers, and other stakeholders can help aggregate demand, streamline deployment, and reduce overall middle mile costs. Pool your resources and expertise.

4\. Tap into other funding sources - In addition to BEAD, look to leverage complementary programs like the $1 billion Middle Mile Grant Program and the ReConnect loan and grant program from the USDA. Combining multiple federal and state funding streams can maximizeminimize investment.

5\. Prioritize projects that improve affordability - Ultimately, the goal of the BEAD program is to make broadband more affordable and accessible. Target middle mile investments that will enable ISPs to offer high-quality service at lower prices to consumers, such as open-access fiber networks.

By taking a strategic approach to middle mile planning and investment, states can lay the groundwork for BEAD-funded last-mile deployments that will drive broadband access, adoption, and equity in rural communities for years to come. 

What other best practices are you seeing for middle mile projects? Let me know in the comments.

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