It’s official, NTIA/RUS today announced they are streamlining the ARRA’s broadband grant and loan programs by awarding the remaining funding in just one more round, instead of two rounds, to increase efficiency and better accommodate applicants. Not unexpected, but now official.

The agencies expect to begin announcing funding first round awards in December 2009.

The agencies also announced they are seeking public comment on how best to administer the second round of funding for the programs in order to improve the applicant experience and maximize the ability of the programs to meet Recovery Act objectives.