Top navigation skipped
BDO Map: Frequently asked questions
Why am I being asked to submit broadband service availability data?
The BDO is updating the Texas Broadband Development Map to ensure it accurately represents the current availability of broadband internet service throughout the state. Your data improve the map, which will inform the BDO’s decision-making process when awarding grants for qualifying broadband infrastructure projects.
Am I required to provide the requested information?
No. However, failure to provide the requested information may negatively impact your ability to participate in the program or receive grant funding.
I submitted my service data last year. Do I need to resubmit my data again?
Yes. The BDO is updating the Texas Broadband Development Map based on current data. Every ISP in Texas is being asked to submit updated serviceability data to ensure the map accurately represents the current availability of broadband internet service throughout the state.
How do I submit the requested data?
When the submission window opens, the BDO’s mapping vendor LightBox (LBX) will email the secure credentials needed to access the submission portal. Please sign into the portal using those credentials and follow the submission directions.
What if I don’t receive an email from LBX with the secure credentials for the submission portal?
LBX will use the most recent contact information it has for communicating with ISPs. If you do not receive an email from LBX by Aug. 24, 2023, please contact the Texas ISP Coordinator to request your secure credentials.
Will the information I submit be confidential?
Yes. Requested information submitted by an ISP is confidential by law. Entities opting to sign a confidentiality agreement (PDF) with LBX must complete the agreement and send it to TexasISPCoordinator@lightboxre.com.
I submitted a confidentiality form last year. Do I need to submit another?
No. ISPs that submitted a form previously do not need to submit a second confidentiality form.
Is there more information available on how to submit the requested data?
Yes. Please refer to our ISP Submission Guide (PDF), Section 4, for more information.
What data format and table structure are required for the ISP data submission process?
Please refer to the ISP Submission Guide (PDF), Sections “Fixed List of Locations” and “Fixed/Mobile Coverage Areas” for details.
What is the ISP data acquisition timeline?
The ISP data submission window to update the Broadband Development Map began on Aug. 21, 2023, and will now close on Sept. 15, 2023 at midnight (central). Late submissions may not be included in the updated version of the map.
When will the map be updated?
The BDO anticipates the updated map will be published on Jan. 1, 2024.
Please check this website for announcements regarding additional mapping updates.
Who should I contact at the BDO if I have questions about the ISP data submission process or need technical assistance?
For questions and technical assistance related to submitting mapping data, please contact the Texas ISP Coordinator.
Is there an effective date for the data to be submitted for the initial broadband availability data submission initiative?
Yes. For the ISP data submission filing, broadband availability data as of Aug. 21, 2023, must be submitted during the data submission window. For this round, do not submit future broadband availability data.
For more guidance, please refer to the ISP Submission Guide (PDF).
Is there any submission deadline leniency?
No. Deadlines are based on statutory requirements and time needed for data processing.
Are satellite broadband availability data included in the ISP data submission filing?
Yes. The BDO is requesting broadband availability data from all ISPs in the state, including satellite providers.
I represent a new ISP without a current service area in Texas. Do I need to contact the BDO despite being unable to submit current mapping data for areas in Texas?
Yes. New ISPs that do not yet have a serviceable area in Texas should email the BDO indicating they do not have data to submit but intend to expand their footprint in Texas. Please include the name of the ISP, date of inception and current contact information in case BDO has follow-up questions.
How does an ISP ensure that it’s on the communications list to receive broadband availability data submission requests?
Any ISP seeking to participate in the broadband availability data submission initiative that did not receive an initial request should provide their contact details, including email, phone, contact name, contact title and organization name to the Texas ISP Coordinator.