About
In July 2009, the National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA)
announced the opportunity for each state to submit proposals for the mapping and
planning components of the State Broadband Data and Development Grant Program. Governor
Martin O'Malley chose the Maryland Broadband Cooperative, Inc. (MDBC) to lead Maryland's
data collection, mapping, and planning initiative. A working partnership was formed,
comprising MDBC, Salisbury University, Towson University, Maryland Department of
Business and Economic Development, and Maryland's State Geographic Information Officer.
NTIA announced Maryland's award in November 2009.
Why Map Maryland's Broadband Inventory?
The Maryland Broadband Mapping Initiative comprises a comprehensive statewide broadband
inventory, a publicly available interactive Maryland Broadband Map, and contribution
of the State's data to the National Broadband Map (http://broadbandmap.gov/). Maryland’s
map shows the geographic extent that broadband service capability is deployed and
available in Maryland from a commercial or public provider.
What is the State Broadband Data Development Program?
The State Broadband Data Development Program is a competitive, merit-based matching
grant program funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that will increase
broadband access and adoption through improved data collection, publicly accessible
broadband maps, and statewide broadband planning. The Program is managed by the
Department of Commerce through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration
(NTIA).
States that receive Broadband Data and Development grants are developing and maintaining
publicly accessible, interactive broadband inventory maps showing the geographic
extent that broadband service capability is deployed and available from a commercial
or public provider throughout each state. States contribute their data twice annually
to the National Broadband Map.
Sources:
- American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act), Public Law 111-5
(Feb. 17, 2009)
- Broadband Data Improvement Act (BDIA), Title I of Public Law 110-385, 122 Stat.
4096 (Oct. 10, 2008)