Guam Awarded $156M in BEAD Funding to Increase Access to High-Speed Internet for Island Residents

The funding for Guam's broadband infrastructure was increased from an initial allocation of $25 million. The $156 million award will be under the purview of the Office of Infrastructure Policy and Development (OIPD), which has responsibility for broadband funding. Established last year by Executive Order 2022-11, OIPD, as Guam’s designated broadband office, is charged with overseeing the implementation of hundreds of millions of dollars in federal broadband investments over the next five years. 

“This once-in-a-generation funding is a game changer for Guam. We long recognized the need for improved broadband infrastructure on the island, and this funding will allow us to make significant progress in bridging the digital divide and providing equal access to opportunities for our residents,” said Governor Lou Leon Guerrero. “The BEAD funding will be used to expand broadband infrastructure in unserved and underserved areas of Guam with the goal of bringing improved high-speed internet service to all. The initiative will also address affordability, increased access, and help grow jobs and a stronger workforce.”

Lieutenant Governor Joshua Tenorio added, “The recent devastation of Typhoon Mawar and the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical importance of reliable high-speed internet for remote work, telehealth, and distance learning. We spoke to many of our stakeholders, including mayors and other members of the community. This ongoing stakeholder communication will help direct our path moving forward, ensuring this funding improves the quality of life for our residents, and expands the growth of businesses and industries on our island.”

“This increase in funding represents more than a year of work in making a strong case with the Commerce Department to secure as much broadband funding for Guam as possible,” said the head of the OIPD, Tyrone J. Taitano. “This enormous investment in broadband infrastructure will not only help bridge the digital divide, it will help diversify our economy and create new business and job opportunities for our community.” 

The federally-funded program was created in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). In securing this award, Guam received more funding than six states (Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Massachusetts, North Dakota, and Rhode Island). 

For more information, contact Mr. Taitano at (671) 988-4612.

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