Queen Anne’s County has made significant progress over the past several years to expand access to reliable high-speed internet, bringing broadband service to approximately 1,900 homes that previously did not have access. These connections were made possible through a combination of federal, state, and local grant funding.

As this work enters its final phase, County officials are urging residents who are still unconnected to act now. Based on a review of grant-funded service areas and internet availability reported by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the County estimates that approximately 438 homes remain eligible for broadband service but are not yet connected.

Some grant programs remain open; however, funding to cover little or no-cost connections will not be available indefinitely. Residents are encouraged to confirm their eligibility and initiate service as soon as possible.

Residents can determine whether their home falls within a broadband grant area by using the County’s Long Driveway Grant application map. While not all residents will qualify for the Long Driveway Grant itself, the map will indicate:

• Whether your address is located in a broadband grant area
• Which Internet Service Provider is designated to connect your home

https://gis.qac.org/vertigisstudio/web/?app=82fd629c853144ddbd5c96a3e4d6a6fb

This step is critical for identifying the correct provider to contact for service.

Queen Anne’s County also offers a Long Driveway Grant for residents whose homes are located far from existing broadband infrastructure. Eligible applicants may receive:

• Up to 90% of construction costs covered
• Maximum grant award of $13,500

The County estimates that approximately 106 addresses may be eligible for this program.

Additional broadband resources and grant information are available through the Broadband Advisory Council webpage:
https://onboard.qac.org/board/4323

In addition, the State of Maryland has identified approximately 92 addresses in Queen Anne’s County through the BEAD Program (Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment). Under this program, Internet Service Providers are bidding to build broadband infrastructure to unserved homes.

According to the State, ISP awards are expected in early December, which could bring new service opportunities to additional residents.

Residents may also check which providers report service availability at their address by visiting the FCC National Broadband Map: https://broadbandmap.fcc.gov/location-summary/fixed?version=jun2025&location_id=8b83af33-06d3-4e79-9921-7db0933cd1c0&addr1=13611+1ST+ST&addr2=QUEEN+ANNE%2C+MD+21657&zoom=15.00&vlon=-75.953315&vlat=38.920661&br=r&speed=100_20&tech=1_2_3_6_7

With an estimated 438 homes still unserved, the County encourages residents without internet access to use the tools and resources above to determine eligibility and contact the appropriate provider.

Residents who believe they may qualify for the Long Driveway Grant or who need assistance navigating broadband options should email:
[email protected]

 

 

Queen Anne’s at Home (QA@H), a local nonprofit helping seniors remain independent and connected in their own homes, hosted its annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner on April 22 at the Bay Country Moose Club in celebration of National Volunteer Appreciation Week.

This year’s highlight was the presentation of the Margan Glover Award of Excellence, QA@H’s highest honor for community service, to Charlie Brooks. A founding member, current board member, and Treasurer of the organization, Charlie has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of QA@H. From setting up financial systems, record keeping, and budget planning to developing and maintaining vital ties with the Mid-Shore Community Foundation, Charlie’s commitment continues to strengthen the organization’s foundation.

“We wouldn’t be where we are today without Charlie’s vision and follow-through,” said Cindy Bach, president of QA@H. “His dedication to our mission has been unwavering.”

The evening also honored the many volunteers who help plan community events, organize programs, and provide essential services—especially the Friendly Visits program, which brings companionship to members who are homebound. One member has received weekly visits for over three years from two devoted volunteers, a beautiful example of how meaningful connections are at the heart of QA@H.

“We’re more than just a service organization—we’re a community,” said QA@H member Jan Weeda. “I benefit the most from visiting members who can’t go out very much. It is truly an honor to meet these amazing people and become friends.”

To learn more about Queen Anne’s at Home or to inquire about membership and volunteer opportunities, visit www.queenannesathome.org or call 410-635-4045.

 

About Queen Anne’s at Home

QA@H is a caring community of seniors who help each other stay safe, healthy, connected, and independent at home. Its mission is to help seniors thrive at home which addresses the number one fear that senior citizens have: “What if I can’t stay in my own home?” Members assist each other with rides to appointments and household chores, among other things. QA@H arranges social activities such as coffee meet-ups, happy hours, and outdoor adventures as well as educational seminars where experts present topics relevant to seniors.

Founded in 2018, QA@H is based on the model of seniors helping seniors to thrive as we age in our own homes. Members offer help as they can and seek help as they need. This reciprocity helps build on QA@H’s three foundational principles of empowerment, connection, and purpose.