Michigan study to identify state’s high-speed needs

What’s happening: With $100 million in federal funding reserved for high-speed internet infrastructure buildout anticipated to come Michigan’s way, state officials are looking to get in front of the transformative infrastructure project. It’s why the state has partnered with Connected Nation Michigan to lead the Broadband Infrastructure Audit and Validation project, an audit of the state’s high-speed internet service coverage.

How it will work: Over the next six months, the Broadband Infrastructure Audit will map the precise location of high-speed internet access assets throughout the state — and also where they’re not. Doing so will allow the state access to that $100 million in federal funding while also preparing them for an effective and efficient internet infrastructure buildout. The state is tapping $5.2 million in federal CARES Act funding to fund the audit.

Why it’s important: "In today's society, the fastest way to create an even playing field and grow our economy is through affordable access to high-speed internet," says Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. "When we make investments in this critical infrastructure, we can help businesses grow and lower costs for Michiganders to connect to the internet so they can go to school, access health care, participate in the economy, and more. This critical service is not a luxury — it is a necessity. Today's announcement will help us chart out how to efficiently expand high-speed internet access in communities across our state."

The need for speed: This isn’t the first time that the state has worked with Connected Nation Michigan, a nonprofit organization with a mission to improve people’s access to broadband internet service. The Michigan Economic Development Corp. previously worked with Connected Nation to facilitate the Connecting Michigan Taskforce in 2020. In 2021, Gov. Whitmer established the Michigan-High Speed Internet Office to further along state goals for wider internet access for all.

What they’re saying: “We applaud the innovative thinking of Governor Whitmer and Lt. Governor Gilchrist. The administration is taking an approach that will not only mean connecting more Michiganders but doing so in a fiscally responsible way,” says Jessica Denson, communications director of Connected Nation.

“Connected Nation Michigan brings with it more than two decades of experience in the broadband space – including expertise in mapping and analysis. It’s critical that state leaders have accurate data about where there are unserved and underserved populations – meaning that we must both look at where infrastructure build outs are necessary as well as where there are gaps in the adequate speeds and bandwidth needed for individuals, families, and communities to take part in everything from telework to remote learning.”