Enabling Data-Driven Policymaking Using Broadband-Plan Querying Tool (BQT+)

Abstract

Poor broadband access undermines civic and economic life, a challenge exacerbated by the fact that millions of Americans still lack reliable high-speed connectivity. Federal broadband funding initiatives aim to address these gaps, but their success depends on accurate availability and affordability data. Existing data, often based on self-reported ISP information, can overstate coverage and speeds, risking misallocation of funds and leaving unserved communities behind. We present BQT+, an AI-agent data collection platform that queries ISP web interfaces by inputting residential street addresses and extracting data on service availability, quality, and pricing. BQT+ has been used in policy evaluation studies, including an independent assessment of broadband availability, speed tiers, and affordability in areas targeted by the $42.45 billion BEAD program.