On Feb. 17, Governor Polis signed an Executive Order directing the Colorado Broadband Office (CBO) to develop a Broadband Strategic Plan to connect 99% of Colorado households to high-speed broadband by 2027.
“Stronger broadband access means convenience and a stronger economy. As we forge a path forward from this pandemic, we must continue closing the digital divide, equipping our students and small businesses with access to digital tools to thrive in their chosen field or trade, and reach new markets,” said Governor Polis. “That’s why I’m excited to sign an executive order today that sets an ambitious goal to connect over 99% of Coloradans to affordable, high-speed broadband in the next five years, saving Coloradans money on education and health care, no matter where you live in our great state.”
The Executive Order accelerates initiatives included in bipartisan legislation signed last year and builds on directives in Governor Polis’ earlier Executive Order B 2020 009 by directing the Office of Information Technology (OIT) to coordinate and closely collaborate with state agencies and departments to ensure they prioritize broadband deployment and increase transparency.
“There’s no single answer for providing broadband access because every Colorado community has diverse needs and challenges,” said Brandy Reitter, Executive Director of the Colorado Broadband Office. “We want to partner with local and regional leaders across the state to craft a Broadband Strategic Plan that delivers access for all Coloradans, no matter their income or location.”
The state will publish a Colorado Broadband Strategic Plan later this year. The plan includes a roadmap for connecting 99% of Colorado households to high-speed internet, sets a process for soliciting feedback and engaging community industry and community leaders, and develops strategies to address digital connectivity across agencies.