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FCC Broadband Map Challenge

Be sure the Evansville Region is represented on the
New FCC Broadband Availability Map

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has released a map showing broadband availability across the U.S. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) will use this map to guide the distribution of funding for building broadband infrastructure through programs such as the $42.5 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. To make sure that the funding reaches the areas that need broadband most, residents and businesses are being asked to look at the map and verify the information is correct.

To do this, follow these three steps:

Step 1: Visit broadbandmap.fcc.gov and type in your address

When you first visit the website, there is a large box in the center of the page. Input your address into this box and hit enter. You will be redirected to a map showing the location of the address you entered with the location and broadband service information in a sidebar on the right.

Step 2: Verify your address’s location
If it’s wrong, submit a Location Challenge

Take a look at the map and make sure it accurately reflects the address you entered. If the dot does not reflect the actual location of the address you entered, whether it’s in the wrong place or missing entirely, then you need to submit a Location challenge. To submit a location challenge, click on “Location Challenge” in the top right corner of the top box in the right side bar.  Here is a step by step guide by the FCC on how to submit a location challenge.

Step 3: Validate your available broadband
If it’s wrong, submit an Availability Challenge

If your location information is correct, then direct your attention to the second box on the right side of the screen. This box lists the providers and their available services for your location. Make sure this box reflects your experience and knowledge. If it does not, you can submit an availability challenge by selecting “Availability Challenge” above the right corner of that box. The video below walks you through the steps of submitting an availability challenge.

Through taking these three steps, you can do your part in getting funding to where broadband infrastructure is needed most in the Evansville Region. While the FCC intends to accept challenges to the data on a continuous basis, everyone is highly encouraged to submit their challenges by Friday, January 13, 2023 to impact the BEAD funding allocations.

Additional Resources:

Source: https://pcrd.purdue.edu/3-steps-to-bring-better-broadband-to-indiana/