Massachusetts

The state is currently in the BEAD challenge phase.

July 5, 2024 – A coalition of nonprofits, business owners and residents of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, the Fix Cape Internet Coalition, called on area residents and visitors to participate in internet speed tests over the holiday weekend on Wednesday.

“While enjoying all that Cape Cod has to offer, some are struggling with inadequate internet performance or no access at all,” the statement said, adding that they will need as many people as possible to conduct speed tests while the area is busy.

Massachusetts received $147 million for the Broadband, Equity, Access and Deployment program to expand internet services across the state. The Fix Cape Internet Coalition said it is working to bring that money to the Cape Cod region to “increase choice and competition in internet services.”

The coalition urged residents and visitors to conduct three speed tests in their homes and businesses before July 20, each at least 24 hours apart.

The BEAD program requires states to create a map depicting broadband connections in their jurisdiction and to use the funds they receive from BEAD to connect the areas of the state that are unserved or underserved. Speed ​​tests, which measure home internet speeds, are one way for states to collect data on broadband coverage.

Massachusetts has released its map of the challenge process using data provided by the Federal Communications Commission's June broadband map.

The process to challenge an area's internet coverage began in Massachusetts on June 20 and will run through July 20. Eligible stakeholders will have the opportunity to challenge internet coverage in specific areas. After that period, the Massachusetts Broadband Institute will initiate the rebuttal phase, where ISPs can counter the challenge claims. MBI will hold informational technical assistance webinars and support users throughout the process.