The State of Montana Requests Information on Broadband Mapping Platforms

• Belinda Adams
• October 22 2021

HELENA, MONT– The State of Montana is requesting information on a new mapping platform to carry out the ConnectMT Act program mission of deploying broadband throughout Montana.

 “The ConnectMT Program will allocate at least $275 million to connect Montanans’ broadband infrastructure,” said Department of Administration Director Misty Ann Giles. “With this map, providers can plan projects to bridge the digital divide. By working with internet service providers, the Gianforte administration will implement ARPA goals of bridging the digital divide and enhancing digital equity.”  

 The ConnectMT Act program was established during Montana’s 67^th Legislature with the passing of House Bill 632 which implemented the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Senate Bill 297 which established the ConnectMT Act program. In conjunction with House Bill 632, Senate Bill 297 authorized the creation of a broadband map to be publicly available and used to determine the served, underserved, and frontier areas of Montana.

 “We encourage the public to monitor the State of Montana’s ConnectMT website regarding broadband at arpa.mt.gov/Communications for future announcements and development of the ConnectMT Program,” said Broadband Program Manager, Chad Rupe.

 The Department of Administration has published a Request for Information (RFI) seeking a commercial off-the-shelf solution that meets criteria as outlined at: bids.sciquest.com/apps/Router/PublicEvent?CustomerOrg=StateOfMontana. Any vendor interested in responding must register in the electronic Montana Acquisition and Contracting System (eMACS). For more information regarding eMACS vendors should visit spb.mt.gov/eMACS-Resources.