San Diego City Wire

San Diego County is taking steps to address the lack of high-speed internet in its unincorporated areas. The county has allocated $9 million from the American Rescue Plan Act for broadband infrastructure improvements. This initiative aims to reduce the digital divide affecting residents who face issues with internet availability, reliability, and affordability.

A Broadband Committee was formed by the county to evaluate proposals from Internet Service Providers. These projects aim to offer affordable broadband service, priced at or below $30 per month, to over 1,000 low-income households across three unincorporated regions.

The county shared a Notice of Funding Availability with all known Internet Service Providers in July 2024. Grant proposals were solicited through public outreach based on insights from the Comprehensive Broadband Plan. This plan identifies problem areas and outlines necessary partnerships, infrastructure improvements, and educational initiatives needed to bridge the digital gap.

“These projects will provide affordable internet plans for low-income households, and high-speed internet access, strengthening residents’ connection to telehealth, education and economic opportunities. This is one of several positive outcomes for the community advanced by our Comprehensive Broadband Plan,” stated Dahvia Lynch, general manager of the County’s Land Use & Environment Group overseeing these efforts.

The construction of internet services is expected to be completed by December 31, 2026.