The FCC announced a public notice period for a $300 million mobility fund, which targets 3G wireless unserved markets, as a part of the new Connect America Fund. This $300 million will be offered through a reverse auction, Auction 901, to fund wireless network builds in identified areas. The auction is scheduled to begin on September 27, 2012.
The FCC updated the eligible areas today by issuing a new interactive map. The map is now current through January 2012, based on American Roamer data. The map illustrates U.S. census blocks that based on this data, lack 3G or better mobile coverage.
This map is for initial planning purposes. Before the auction, the Commission will provide a final list “… of census blocks available, related data such as road miles and population, an interactive mapping interface, along with additional information designed to assist potential bidders considering participation in the auction.”