HUD RULES PERTAINING TO BROADBAND
Installation of Broadband Infrastructure
In December 2016, HUD published regulations which required requiring installation of broadband infrastructure in new construction or substantial rehabilitation of HUD-funded multifamily rental housing. The rule does allow exceptions to this requirement.
Amendments to the Consolidated Planning Process to Assess Broadband Needs
HUD also issued final rules pertaining to the Consolidated Planning process which serves as the framework for a community-wide dialogue to identify housing and community development priorities that align and focus funding from HUD's formula block grant programs. This rule amends HUD's Consolidated Plan regulations to require that jurisdictions consider two additional concepts in their planning efforts, one of which is how to address the need for broadband access for low- and moderate-income residents in the communities they serve. . n addition,
For more information, check out these FAQs: https://www.hudexchange.info/resource/4891/cdbg-broadband-infrastructure-faqs/
There are other resources and tools to help your residents get online affordably and effectively.
RESOURCES FOR FINDING LOW-COST INTERNET ACCESS, AFFORDABLE DEVICES AND LOCAL TRAINING
Affordable Internet:
Many Internet Service Providers(ISPs) contributing to ConnectHome have extended their discounted services to low-income families throughout their footprint. View available stakeholder offers or visit EveryoneOn's website for affordable options in your ZIP Code.
Under Federal Communications Commission guidance, the Universal Services Administration Company extended the Lifeline program discount from phone to Internet service in March 2016. HUD-assisted residents qualify by virtue of their housing benefit, other programs that determine eligibility include Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. For more information, read the fact sheet or visit the website.
Affordable Devices:
Local businesses, colleges, even your own PHA will do a bulk computer upgrade every so many years. It could be worth inquiring with them to see if they would be interested in donating their used equipment to your ConnectHomeUSA program.
Other ideas:
The Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse, a national nonprofit organization, has information that may help you identify a local refurbisher that could support efforts to supply low-cost devices to your residents.
Affordable devices for individual use can also be found by going to EveroneOn’s website.
PARTICIPATING IN CONNECTHOMEUSA
HUD prepared a Playbook to guide communities in the steps necessary to bridge the digital divide. View the Playbook, especially the chapters on Building Partnerships and Securing Funding.If your PHA or tribe does not participate in ConnectHomeUSA, applications to join the 2019 cohort will be announced in the spring of 2019. Check here for updates.
OTHER INFORMATION: BroadbandUSA: Guide to Federal Funding of Broadband Projects