While 68.5% of Nebraska households enjoy internet access, 9.6% remain disconnected—affecting over 77,102 residents and impacting work, education, and healthcare.
To address this, Nebraska has been allocated $405 million in BEAD funding to expand broadband access, focusing on rural and underserved areas. The Nebraska Broadband Bridge Program has also committed $20 million in 2024, ensuring providers deliver at least 100 Mbps symmetrical speeds in these regions.
In a major leap forward, a $3.7 million grant is funding fiber installations across 70 square miles near Stromsburg and southwest Osceola, bringing internet to 176 unserved homes.
While urban hubs like Omaha, Lincoln, and Grand Island benefit from fast speeds, 12% of the state’s rural population still faces challenges, with fiber access remaining out of reach in many areas.