On his most recent trip to the Federal Capital, the Assistant Secretary of the Government for Innovation, Information, Data and Technology, Enrique Völckers-Nin, accompanied by the team from the Broadband program and the Office of Innovation and Technology Services (PRITS), held work tables to continue the efficient use of the allocated funds and accelerate the construction of the broadband infrastructure necessary to close the digital divide on the Island.

“We demonstrated that we have been diligent in using federal funds to address different needs. In the specific case of funds allocated to close the digital divide in Puerto Rico, we presented, in record time, the action plan to continue developing projects that help improve telecommunications infrastructure and, therefore, guarantee affordable access to high-speed Internet for all Puerto Ricans,” said the Völckers-Nin.

During the working session with federal agencies, which included the Department of Commerce, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the Department of the Treasury (Treasury), the progress of the projects that began to be implemented in Puerto Rico was presented, with a total of $900 million in investment, of which $500 million came from federal funds and $400 million from state funds to address the issue of Internet access on the island.

“It should be noted that the federal entities praised and congratulated the Government of Puerto Rico for our organization and preparation of the work route and for the results that are already being seen with regard to this execution. Between federal and local funds, we have $900 million available, which will be used in a coordinated manner to promote the development of broadband projects under the direction of Governor Pierluisi,” said the executive director of the Smart Island program. “It was a highly productive work session where we were able to collaborate on improving the tools that the federal government has to allocate funds,” he added.

The projects that will be created with the most recent approval of $158 Million by the Department of the Treasury, include the creation of Multi-Service Centers in vulnerable areas, providing access to telework, telestudy and telemedicine, improving the quality of life of citizens. Also, Internet Centres will be established to provide connectivity to all citizens, prioritizing municipalities without broadband infrastructure and improving the resilience of telecommunication with an undersea fiber optic cable.

Other significant projects are: Data Centers that will boost secure competitiveness in Puerto Rico, attracting multinational companies to store their data on the Island and encouraging economic growth; and Public Wi-Fi in squares, recreational centers, beaches and common areas, ensuring that all citizens have access to high speed Internet in public places.

In addition to these projects, investment will be made in improving the resilience of telecommunications companies and professional training, grants to citizens and training will be offered to effectively close the digital divide.

“More than 216,000 homes and small businesses in Puerto Rico will benefit from the expansion of broadband, facilitating access to health care, education and employment, allowing greater participation in the modern economy,” the official added.

The government of Puerto Rico is advancing its vision of a “Smart Island” with the implementation of a developed 5-year action plan that ensures the effective use of funds for High-Speed Internet projects, reducing the digital divide and promoting digital inclusion.

The Puerto Rico Broadband Program, with its pillars of connectivity, quality, accessibility and knowledge, will lead the digital transformation of the Island, ensuring a more inclusive and technologically advanced future. For more information, visit https://www.smartisland.pr.gov.

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