Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and BroadbandOhio announced on Friday nearly $23.7 million to expand broadband access by reimbursing internet service providers (ISPs) for infrastructure costs.
Through the Broadband Pole Replacement and Undergrounding Program, six internet providers are receiving reimbursement, impacting 23 counties.
“Every Ohioan deserves access to affordable high-speed internet, no matter where they live,” said Governor DeWine. “By supporting infrastructure investments, we’re opening doors for more communities to connect, grow, and thrive.”
“Supporting digital connectivity is an important tool for growing our workforce,” said Lt. Governor Jim Tressel. “With the job opportunities we have coming into Ohio right now, we need to make sure that we have digital connectivity in all parts of the state.”
“Reliable internet starts with reliable infrastructure,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. “By removing the cost barriers that slow down progress, we’re making sure every Ohio community has the tools to move forward to connect all Ohioans in today’s digital world.”
A total of $23,698,526 was requested through 67 applications that cover 1,333 poles and 3,622 undergroundings during what is the program’s third round of funding.
- Ohio Gig submitted six applications totaling $18,519,703 in reimbursement, covering infrastructure costs in Belmont, Delaware, Union, Hardin, Clinton, and Warren counties.
- Charter Communications submitted 22 applications totaling $3,042,707 in reimbursement, covering Brown, Carroll, Fayette, Guernsey, Hardin, Highland, Knox, Logan, Muskingum, Morgan, Noble, Perry, and Stark counties.
- South Central Power submitted 33 applications totaling $1,437,341 in reimbursement, covering Belmont, Monroe, Highland, and Harrison counties.
- Logan County Gig submitted one application totaling $303,304 in reimbursement for Logan County.
- The Southern Ohio Communications Company submitted one application requesting $295,235 in reimbursement for Adams County.
- JB Nets submitted four applications totaling $100,236 in reimbursement for Gallia County.
Through three rounds of program funding, nearly $25.1 million has been requested for reimbursement.
The Pole Replacement and Undergrounding Program was created by House Bill 33 of the 135th General Assembly to reimburse ISPs for essential pole replacements, mid-span pole installations, and undergrounding projects in unserved areas. ISPs are eligible to receive 75 percent of eligible costs, up to $7,500 per pole. Eligible costs include removing, modifying, and disposing of existing utility poles. Undergrounding costs include the costs to dig a trench, perform directional boring, install conduit, seal the trench, and other affiliated expenses.
Applicants must submit evidence showing economic reasoning for underground fiber lines.
The program allocates $50 million to reimburse qualifying internet service providers for the costs of necessary pole replacements and undergrounding projects that have taken place since July 1, 2023. It will continue to reimburse providers for qualifying infrastructure costs until the exhaustion of funding or by June 1, 2029. The program is non-competitive and first-come, first-served.
