BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana has completed federal environmental review requirements for broadband projects covering nearly 25,000 serviceable locations, marking another step in the state’s effort to expand high-speed internet access to unserved and underserved communities.
The milestone makes Louisiana the first state in the nation to complete National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) approvals for projects funded through the federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, according to state officials.
The projects are being implemented through Louisiana’s GUMBO 2.0 program and supported by BEAD funding. The effort is being carried out under the Benefit of the Bargain initiative, a 2025 program from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration that aims to accelerate broadband deployment while maximizing public investment.
Completion of the federal review process allows participating broadband providers to move forward with projects designed to bring reliable high-speed internet service to thousands of locations across the state.
“Every NEPA approval brings Louisiana one step closer to full coverage. With approvals secured for projects serving nearly 25,000 broadband serviceable locations, Louisiana is on track to eliminate the digital divide by 2028, bringing positive change to communities across the state,” said Veneeth Iyengar, executive director of ConnectLA.
The Louisiana Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity, known as ConnectLA, leads the state’s efforts to expand broadband access and reduce gaps in internet service availability. The agency works with federal, state and local partners to develop and implement broadband infrastructure projects throughout Louisiana.
State officials said the approvals represent continued progress toward the goal of providing statewide access to reliable broadband service.