This past week, Myrtle Beach became the focal point of a national conversation on broadband expansion as state and federal officials gathered to discuss the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. Created by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the $42 billion initiative aims to expand high-speed internet access to underserved and unserved communities across the United States.
The meeting brought together leaders from six states to strategize on how to maximize the impact of BEAD funding. South Carolina’s recent approval for $551 million in BEAD funding provided a backdrop for the discussion. The state’s plan, approved last month, is part of a broader effort to eliminate broadband deserts and promote digital equity.
A Commitment to Connectivity
“When we made our first statewide investment in broadband back in June 2020, there were over 300,000 homes and businesses in South Carolina without high-speed internet,” said Jim Stritzinger, Director of the South Carolina Broadband Office. “That number has significantly decreased, but there’s still work to be done. BEAD funding gives us the tools we need to finish the job.”
South Carolina has been a leader in public-private partnerships to expand broadband access, and officials are now focused on ensuring every dollar is strategically allocated. “The collaboration between state governments and private industry is critical,” Stritzinger added. “It’s the only way to ensure we’re building sustainable and impactful broadband infrastructure.”
Building on Success
The Palmetto State is not alone in its efforts. Representatives from other states, including North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama, shared their experiences and strategies during the Myrtle Beach meeting. The consensus among participants was clear: a coordinated effort between public and private entities is key to achieving universal broadband access.
Alan Davidson, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and Administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), highlighted the importance of the BEAD program. “This funding represents a historic investment in our nation’s infrastructure,” Davidson said. “It’s about more than just connecting homes and businesses; it’s about giving people access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.”
The Road Ahead
South Carolina’s plan allocates a significant portion of its BEAD funding to last-mile infrastructure projects, ensuring that even the most remote areas are connected. The state is also investing in digital literacy programs and affordable broadband initiatives to ensure that all residents can benefit from the new infrastructure.
Experts agree that these initiatives will play a crucial role in closing the digital divide. “Access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity,” said Scott Woods, Vice President for Community Engagement at Ready.net. “Whether it’s students needing reliable internet for school, patients using telehealth, or small businesses trying to compete in a digital economy, broadband is the great equalizer.”
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Rural areas often face unique geographical and financial barriers that make broadband deployment difficult. However, the BEAD program’s focus on equity ensures that states prioritize these communities in their funding plans.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all solution,” Stritzinger said. “Each state faces different challenges, but by sharing best practices and leveraging federal support, we’re making real progress.”
The Myrtle Beach meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to collaboration. As the BEAD program moves forward, state and federal leaders remain focused on bridging the digital divide and ensuring that every American has access to reliable, high-speed internet.
