As an example of how states are handling the broadband rollout, Arizona plans to build fiber-optic backbones along major interstates and highways (I-17 and I-19) to expand broadband access to underserved areas, reported the Arizona Daily Star. Last week, The Arizona Commerce Authority and the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) unveiled a joint effort: the Arizona Statewide Broadband Middle-Mile Strategic Plan.
The state will use $100 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act, reported the Daily Star. Access will expand to rural and tribal communities that currently lack access to “fast, affordable, and reliable broadband service.” Additionally, according to The Arizona Commerce Authority, about 400,000 households have no internet access, with another 400,000 experiencing substandard services like dial-up or upload and download speeds below the state’s goal (20 Mbps/100 Mbps).
The key to the state’s expansion project, reported the Daily Star, is driving completion of the infrastructure and encouraging private companies to invest in connecting underserved consumers. Some work is underway, with ADOT anticipating adding 200 miles of conduit by early 2023.
Reader Interactions