Broadband access for portions of northern Antelope County, including Royal and Orchard, along with Elgin and Oakdale, will be on the horizon, after Midstates Data Transport, dba Stealth broadband, received more than $1.23 million from the Nebraska broadband Bridge Program.

Nebraska’s Public Service Commission approved 60 grants, totaling approximately $18 million, earlier this month. Commissioner Crystal Rhoades cast the lone dissenting vote.

Dan Watermeier, PSC chairman said, “We are pleased to award the first set of grants through the Nebraska broadband Bridge Program. This funding will go a long way in the state’s efforts to help make high speed broadband available to unserved and underserved Nebraskans.”

Nebraska Statute 86-1301-86-1310 outlines the purpose of the NBBA, which provides up to $40 million dollars over two grant cycles for development of broadband networks, with a minimum of 100 Mbps, in areas of the state either unserved or underserved.

Seventy-six applications for funding were received in the 2021 grant cycle.

During the grant review process, businesses currently serving areas could challenge a grant application. A challenge could also be filed if a provider plans to offer service in the area.

Oakdale and Elgin projects, proposed by Stealth broadband, were challenged, according to owner Klint Arnold.

The PSC denied those challenges.

In the 2022 grant cycle, $2.02 million will be available for funding.

Projects must be competed by July 5, 2023.

A six-month extension may be granted one time, if a provider is unable to meet the 2023 deadline.

Arnold has approached Antelope County Commissioners about potential assistance via America Rescue Plan Funding.

Commissioners have not made a decision about using ARPA funds toward broadband expansion.