County asks residents to help secure broadband funding

||| FROM SAN JUAN COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS |||

San Juan County urges residents to check Federal Communications Commission (FCC) data to help secure future broadband funding before January 13, 2023. This effort to address broadband deficiencies could bring new coverage to the San Juan Islands, resulting in more reliable, higher-speed internet. Digital equity starts with universal access to affordable internet, and the funding allocation for Washington will be defined by the accuracy of the FCC’s map.

“We want the Islands to be represented accurately on the FCC map,” said San Juan County’s Director of Information Technology, Tony Harrell. “This is an opportunity for residents to let their voice be heard and help enact real change.”

Why does it matter to me? 

Federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) funding is based on the state’s unserved population (internet speeds under 25 megabits per second download and 3 megabits per second upload). Other state and federal programs also base funding off of their definitions of unserved and underserved. If the FCC map is inaccurate, your location may be mistakenly listed as served. If that happens, state or federal sources are less likely to fund new service or upgrades. By reviewing and verifying or challenging the map, you will help create a realistic picture of service in San Juan County. 

How you can help

All Washington residents are encouraged to participate in this important validation effort. Visit the state’s FCC National Broadband Map webpage to learn more. This page provides step-by-step instructions to help people understand and navigate the FCC map and challenge process.

Additional resources

• One-page Overview in English and en español  (PDF)
• FCC Broadband Data Collection Help Center
• How to submit an availability challenge (YouTube)

Challenges to the FCC National Broadband Map will be accepted on a rolling basis, but the Commission places priority on those received before January 13, 2023.