Digital Payson discussion group on Facebook 

Digital Payson launches areawide Broadband Access Mapping Challenge

In support of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), the Federal Communication Commission (FCC), and the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) State Broadband Office, the state’s new broadband map is available to the greater Payson/Rim Country and extended areas. Under the federal BEAD (Broadband Equity Access and Deployment) program there is more than $993 million of federal funding available for the State of Arizona to achieve universal high-speed internet access, especially to unserved and underserved areas.

It is CRITICAL to have accurate maps and data identifying locations requiring reliable broadband infrastructure and service.

The new state broadband navigator map can be accessed via the portal at https://az.BroadbandNavigator.com/map.

In conjunction with its availability, Digital Payson has worked with federal and state agencies on the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) mapping challenge process, with the deadline to submit challenges of Tuesday, May 14^th, 2024. BEAD funding is specifically focused on addressing those who are unserved or underserved with their internet access.

Those involved have worked diligently to allow everyday Arizonans the ability to have their voices heard. For the first time in Arizona’s history, the state’s new broadband map can be challenged for inaccuracies in advance of the state awarding additional broadband infrastructure grants impacting our area.

This month-long process will enable stakeholders in Arizona to challenge the state’s broadband map and the levels of internet service reported at homes and businesses throughout the state. Stakeholders will be able to challenge data provided by the map but must submit evidence of the inaccuracies.

Under federal BEAD program regulations, eligible challengers in this process include units of local government, nonprofit organizations, tribal governments, and internet service providers, which will allow for groups to submit challenges on behalf of everyday Arizonans.

In addition, Arizona residents can report service issues and take a speed test through the online Broadband Navigator portal. This evidence will be shared with an eligible challenger to officially submit.

The new state broadband map, challenge portal system, and all other resources available at the state level can be found on the Arizona Commerce Authority Broadband Office’s website at www.AZCommerce.gov/Broadband.

Per the new FCC (Federal Communications Commission) guidelines the following categories were determined:

• Served: Addresses with broadband service that meets or exceeds 100 Mbps download speed and 20 Mbps upload speed, with less than 100 ms of latency, and no data caps or limits.
• Underserved: Addresses with broadband service below 100 Mbps download speed and 20 Mbps upload speed but higher than 25 Mbps download speed and 3 Mbps upload speed. Latency still must be under 100 ms, and no data caps or limits.
• Unserved: Addresses with broadband service below 25 Mbps download speed and 3 Mbps upload speed, or no internet service.

Acceptable internet service from providers is wired (coax, copper, or fiber), or fixed wireless (5G Home Internet, point-to-point microwave), but DOES NOT include satellite internet service providers. 

Click here for the Challenge Types

For more information and to learn how to participate in this process or other questions, please contact Digital Payson via email at DigitalPayson@PaysonAZ.gov. Additional information and details can be found at www.PaysonAZ.gov/community/Digital-Payson as they become available.