Coconino County, AZ announced it’s delivering high-speed internet to 45 rural households via Elon Musk’s SpaceX satellite network. County Vice-Chair Lena Fowler and Coconino County’s Chief Information Officer Matt Fowler both met with the company in 2019. The county agreed to use SpaceX beta technology in an effort to reach rural areas of Northern Arizona.
The beta technology is currently only available near Tuba City in an area in which there was no service previously. Forty-five households in the geographical area are part of this trial according to the County, in which Coconino County invested $81,000. Each household received the $499 satellite dish and one year of internet services at no cost. Those in the trial have the ability to continue internet service after the year by paying a monthly fee. The households include individuals from the Navajo Nation, San Juan Southern Paiute, and Hopi tribes.
“We know the critical need for quality, reliable internet access to rural Coconino County. Our families and workforce need to be connected to compete in today’s market, grow in their education, and enhance their quality of life. Coconino County, once again, leads the way by providing internet access through an innovative and resourceful partnership,” Fowler said. “This journey would not have been possible without the continuous teamwork from SpaceX, County Management, and our Board of Supervisors. We rely heavily on our public and private partners to offer internet where it historically has been unavailable. This is a truly exciting moment.”
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