MBI accepting applications to advance internet expansion

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) has reopened its request for applications through the federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program.

The request for applications will provide an opportunity for internet service providers to submit proposals to build broadband infrastructure that will connect unserved or underserved homes, businesses and community anchor institutions. The application deadline is July 25.

“Massachusetts is working with partners at the federal, state and local levels to build a stronger, digitally connected economy,” Massachusetts interim Economic Development Secretary Ashley Stolba said in a statement. “We are connecting providers with people on the ground to expand access across our state. More service means a more educated, knowledgeable and skilled workforce.”

“MBI has been diligent in our efforts to identify and tackle gaps in service, so we can provide everyone with affordable, reliable broadband access,” MBI Director Michael Baldino said in a statement. “We are encouraging providers to participate in this funding round to continue our efforts to close the digital divide in Massachusetts.”

The BEAD Program is a nationwide initiative to expand high-speed internet access in every state. The program was established as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The federal government allocated $147 million to Massachusetts to help achieve 100% universal service.

Interested providers can obtain more information, including the grant program requirements and applications, on broadband.masstech.org/bead-program.

Overpass standouts continuing monthly

Following coordinated overpass standouts to protest the Trump administration on April 25, May 23 and June 27, a coalition of progressive organizations across Vermont, Massachusetts and Connecticut will hold a coordinated standout on overpasses across the region, including over Interstate 91, on Friday, July 25, from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Going forward, this coalition plans to hold monthly overpass standouts on the last Friday of every month. Franklin County Continuing the Political Revolution, Gill Indivisible and Indivisible West Quabbin will be covering seven overpasses in Franklin County.

The standouts protest the actions of the Trump administration, including increased U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity and the recent passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” that cuts funding to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), among other reductions.

Co-sponsors of the event include Indivisible Northampton/Swing Left Western Mass, Indivisible Brattleboro, Defend Democracy Indivisible-Corinth/Topsham VT, Indivisible West Quabbin, Rise Up Western Mass Indivisible and Franklin County Continuing the Political Revolution.

There are seven overpass locations in Franklin County, located in Bernardston, Greenfield, South Deerfield and Whately. Visit tinyurl.com/OverpassMap to view overpass locations.