Earlier this week Commissioner Grove presented to the MN Broadband Task Force. Today he shares the PowerPoint he used to outline the priorities in MN supplemental budget.

Here are the details for the proposed budget for broadband deployment:

Finish Broadband Statewide – $170 Million

• 240,000 Minnesota households do not have access to strong broadband. They lack the “plumbing” for the modern economy.
• From telehealth to education to economic growth, broadband is vital to vibrant communities.
• Estimated cost to connect those households is $1.3 billion; $170M needed from state.

Finish Broadband Statewide – $170 Million

• We could be among the first states in the U.S. to be fully connected if we make the right one-time investments – now.
• This would differentiate Minnesota and attract talent & business development.
• Greater Minnesota can be the model for rural development and growth for the nation.