Texas continues to make major strides toward bridging the digital divide, and August brought several important updates from the state’s Broadband Development Office (BDO). At ESE Partners, we recognize how transformative these broadband investments will be for communities, businesses, and infrastructure across the state. As Texas’ Most Trusted Environmental Experts, we’re committed to helping clients anticipate and navigate environmental and cultural permitting needs tied to these initiatives.
Key Dates and Deadlines
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Aug. 26 – Industry Roundtable (Teams)
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Sept. 4 – Local Government & Community Roundtable (Teams)
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Sept. 5 at 2 p.m. – Deadline for questions on the Texas Middle Mile (TMM) Program NOFA
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Oct. 27 – Texas’ BEAD Final Proposal due
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Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. – Deadline to submit TMM Program applications
BEAD Program: Moving Toward Universal Coverage
The BDO closed its Benefit of the Bargain Round (BOBR), receiving 4,539 applications from 70 applicants, requesting more than $6.4 billion in funding. Applications covered 98% of project area units statewide. To ensure universal coverage, the office will soon open a supplemental bidding process for eligible locations that were not covered in this round.
Facing a tight turnaround for its Final Proposal, the BDO secured an extension from NTIA to Oct. 27, allowing more time to complete reviews, deconflict applications, and comply with state requirements. This extension gives Texas the runway needed to maximize BEAD funding success.
Texas Middle Mile (TMM) Program Launches
On Aug. 22, the BDO published its TMM Program Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), with up to $200 million available through the state’s Broadband Infrastructure Fund. The program seeks to:
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Enhance network resiliency
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Foster open-access networks to lower costs
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Expand high-speed access to unserved and underserved areas
Applicants are encouraged to integrate flood detection and monitoring infrastructure, especially in vulnerable areas. The application window is open through Nov. 20.
Local Broadband Planning Through TAP
Four new County Broadband Plans were released under the BDO’s Technical Assistance Program (TAP). These reports highlight local strategies, broadband needs, and pathways for improvement—valuable tools for communities preparing to leverage BEAD and TMM funding.
Building Texas’ Broadband Workforce
The BDO also closed applications for the Building the Texas Broadband Workforce Grant Program, a $25 million initiative to expand fiber optic training facilities and certify Texas workers. The office received 19 applications totaling $61 million in requests, with awards expected this fall.
New Leadership at the BDO
The BDO announced Bryant Clayton as its new director. A longtime Comptroller’s Office leader with deep experience in public programs and finance, Clayton brings strong leadership as Texas advances its broadband agenda.
Why This Matters
Broadband is more than connectivity—it’s the backbone for business growth, community development, and resilient infrastructure. From supporting flood monitoring systems to connecting rural Texas, these programs create opportunities for innovation while requiring careful navigation of environmental, cultural, and permitting regulations.
At ESE Partners, we stand ready to support Texas broadband stakeholders as they pursue these transformative projects. Our expertise in permitting and compliance ensures that broadband expansion not only meets state and federal requirements but also protects Texas’ communities and environment.
ESE Partners – Texas’ Most Trusted Environmental Experts.
