The Broadband Policy and Development (BPD) Program was established by Governor Arnold I. Palacios under Directive 2023-003 on April 24, 2023. The program is led by a Special Assistant for Broadband Policy and Development, appointed by the Governor. The purpose of the BPD Program is to improve and expand the internet infrastructure in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. We are located within the Office of the Governor and work towards developing a comprehensive broadband strategy for the Commonwealth that promotes advanced broadband network services, expands the digital economy, and supports access and affordability for residents across the islands. Our work is critical given the essential role of the internet in everyday life, particularly in education, healthcare, transportation, emergency response, and other public services. Yet, our Commonwealth has lagged behind most of the United States in its internet infrastructure and broadband technology. To address this, we are tasked with leading the Commonwealth’s efforts to apply for federal grants and coordinate the use of broadband funding available to us.
By engaging with stakeholders both in the public and private sectors, we aim to transform our internet infrastructure, improve its reliability, affordability, accessibility, and speed. This includes developing strategies to facilitate the buildout and implementation of broadband infrastructure to achieve functionally universal broadband access for all homes and businesses in the Commonwealth.
Also, part of our mission is to promote equal digital opportunities, ensuring all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our economy and way of life.
We are committed to improving the quality of life of our residents through equitable access to reliable, affordable high-speed internet, and the social, educational, healthcare, and economic benefits provided thereby.
To provide strategic direction and collaborative leadership in developing policies, programs, and partnerships aligned with the CNMI Comprehensive Sustainable Development Plan that drive universal broadband access, adoption, utilization, innovation while preserving CNMI’s natural resources for future generations and fostering an equitable society.
Link to Directive Establishing BPD: https://governor.gov.mp/news/directive-2023-003/
The CNMI’s Broadband Policy & Development Office’s mission is to provide strategic direction and collaborative leadership in developing policies, programs, and partnerships aligned with the CNMI Comprehensive Sustainable Development Plan that drive universal broadband access, adoption, utilization, innovation while preserving CNMI’s natural resources for future generations and fostering an equitable society.
This interactive Broadband Serviceable Locations (BSL) map highlights the serviceable locations for broadband in the Northern Mariana Islands, including significant community anchor institutions like schools, libraries, and health centers. The map was developed to help identify areas that are eligible for funding under the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) BEAD program, which aims to expand high-speed internet access to every corner of the Commonwealth.
Stay informed and engaged with your community! Download the 2024 Citizen Centric Report by The BPD Office to get an in-depth look at our achievements, initiatives, and strategic goals for the upcoming year.
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