New Mexico’s Governor announced the state’s broadband expansion funding recipients on November 10. According to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s office, $38.6 million in funding through the Connect New Mexico Pilot Program will expand access to more than 13,400 homes, businesses, farms, ranches, and community institutions across New Mexico. An additional $28.3 million in nonstate funding will be added to the pot for a total investment of $66.9 million, supporting the state’s connectivity pilot program.
The funds are the first of $120 million delivered through the Connect New Mexico Pilot Program as a commitment by the governor to provide statewide broadband access. Grant applications were reviewed and evaluated on a competitive basis, with proposals assessed in eight categories: broadband impact, community support, economic efficiency, project readiness, organizational qualifications, marketing and services strategy, adoption assistance programs, and project sustainability. Awardees of initial grants will support fully scalable broadband infrastructure and include Comcast Corporation, Central New Mexico Electric Cooperative, Ethos Broadband, and Socorro Electric Cooperative.
“New Mexico is laying the groundwork for reducing the digital divide in our state by making reliable and affordable high-speed internet available in communities where it’s not accessible,” said Connect New Mexico Council Interim Chair Kimball Sekaquaptewa. ”For those on the wrong side of the digital divide, today begins our march toward universal access to fast, reliable, and affordable internet for all New Mexicans.”
Office of Broadband Access and Expansion Director Kelly Schlegel noted that the project is a “multi-year build” that will “boost education, jobs, and economic opportunity for all of New Mexico.” The program will increase broadband access speeds to symmetrical 1 Gbps in rural areas.
The New Mexico Office of Broadband and Expansion will accept applications for the second round of funding through December 9. The third round of grant applications will end on February 27, 2023.
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