A broadband construction firm in rural Louisiana, led by Josh Etheridge, is facing severe financial issues due to setbacks in the BEAD initiative. This $42.45 billion government program aims to ensure broadband access for all Americans. As co-owner of EPC, Etheridge recently voiced his concerns in a letter to Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, highlighting the firm’s readiness to begin deployment since January 25.
However, BEAD’s slow progress has caused a severe market freeze, forcing EPC to release 80% of its subcontractors and implement layoffs among full-time employees. The firm, which grew to over 160 employees, was set for 300% growth but is now pausing philanthropic activities and dealing with the repercussions of stalled projects.
Etheridge warns that the bureaucracy undermines the main goal of BEAD – transforming rural America. The crisis is significant enough to prompt public appeals from other Louisiana business leaders, showing a collective frustration within the community. Critically, Louisiana was the first state to secure BEAD funds via GUMBO 2.0, and its initial proposal was approved swiftly.
Etheridge believes Louisiana executed plans correctly, running cost-effective, rule-abiding projects without diversity mandates or excessive expenditures. His letter pleads for a change in approach, urging Lutnick to let Louisiana progress. “Let EPC build. Let our people work,” he emphasized, asserting that faith in government promises is at stake.
The challenges highlighted by Etheridge represent a broader sentiment among telecommunications stakeholders. Speeding up BEAD’s execution could significantly impact rural infrastructure development, an ambition shared by many telecommunications professionals eager to see enhanced connectivity nationwide.
