2016-11352: Narrowing the Digital Divide Through Installation of Broadband Infrastructure in HUD-Funded New Construction and Substantial Rehabilitation of Multifamily Rental Housing

Summary

Through this proposed rule, HUD continues its efforts to narrow the digital divide in low-income communities served by HUD by providing, where feasible and with HUD funding, broadband infrastructure to communities in need of such infrastructure. Broadband is the common term used to refer to a very fast connection to the Internet. Such connection is also referred to as high-speed broadband, broadband Internet, or high-speed Internet. In this proposed rule, HUD proposes to require installation of broadband infrastructure at the time of new construction or substantial rehabilitation of multifamily rental housing that is funded or supported by HUD. Installation of broadband infrastructure at the time of new construction or substantial rehabilitation is generally easier and less costly than when such installation is undertaken as a stand-alone effort. The proposed rule, however, recognizes that installation of broadband infrastructure may not be feasible for all new construction or substantial rehabilitation, and, therefore, the proposed rule allows limited exceptions to the installation requirements. Installing unit-based broadband infrastructure in multifamily rental housing that is newly constructed or substantially rehabilitated with or supported by HUD funding will provide a platform for individuals and families residing in such housing to participate in the digital economy, and increase their access to economic opportunities.

The agency’s own summary, as published.

What this changes

Amends 14 parts of the Code of Federal Regulations — the standing rules this notice rewrites.

• 24 CFR 5 General HUD Program Requirements; Waivers
• 24 CFR 92 Home Investment Partnerships Program
• 24 CFR 93 Housing Trust Fund
• 24 CFR 570 Community Development Block Grants
• 24 CFR 574 Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS
• 24 CFR 578 Continuum of Care Program
• 24 CFR 880 Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program for New Construction
• 24 CFR 881 Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program for Substantial Rehabilitation
• 24 CFR 883 Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program—State Housing Agencies
• 24 CFR 884 Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program, New Construction Set-Aside for Section 515 Rural Rental Housing Projects
• 24 CFR 886 Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program—Special Allocations
• 24 CFR 891 Supportive Housing for the Elderly and Persons with Disabilities
• 24 CFR 905 The Public Housing Capital Fund Program
• 24 CFR 983 Project-Based Voucher (PBV) Program