Arizona’s Ambitious Plan to Enhance Statewide Broadband Connectivity
In an era where digital access is essential, Arizona is making significant strides to ensure comprehensive internet connectivity across the state. Governor Katie Hobbs recently unveiled ConnectAllAZ, a bold initiative aimed at integrating all efforts related to broadband expansion in Arizona, including the substantial $993 million allocated to the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
The newly launched ConnectAllAZ.com serves as a centralized platform providing residents with comprehensive information on broadband programs, community engagement opportunities, and valuable resources like webinars and strategic action plans. A highlight of the website is the Arizona State Broadband Map, which identifies underserved and unserved areas, offering a detailed view of internet access across all state addresses.
“In today’s high-speed world, access to the internet is a necessity to get an education, start and grow a business, access health care and find a job,” expressed Governor Hobbs. “All Arizonans, no matter where they live, should have the tools they need to thrive. Through ConnectAllAZ, we are bringing affordable, reliable broadband to every community in our state.”
Further emphasizing the initiative’s importance, Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, remarked, “Today’s announcement represents an exciting milestone that furthers Arizona’s efforts to expand high-speed broadband statewide. We are grateful to Governor Hobbs for her leadership on ConnectAllAZ, which will increase economic opportunity for Arizonans, especially in rural and Tribal communities.”
ConnectAllAZ streamlines various broadband initiatives such as the BEAD and Digital Equity Programs, marking the largest broadband investment in Arizona’s history. The initiative’s goal is to achieve universal broadband access by 2030, ensuring all Arizona households, particularly diverse communities, benefit from a thriving digital economy.
Moreover, the Arizona Broadband Development Grant Program dedicates $100 million to infrastructure projects targeting the state’s unserved and underserved regions. This program has already seen progress with 17 awardees across rural and urban counties, including notable developments in Apache and Navajo Counties.
The Arizona Statewide Broadband Middle-Mile Program is another significant effort, focusing on enhancing the middle segments of the network through public-private partnerships. This initiative aims to connect local communities to major internet hubs, supported by the Arizona Broadband Statewide Middle-Mile Strategic Plan. The plan includes infrastructure along Interstates 17, 19, and 40, featuring fiber optic conduit installation to bolster last-mile programs like BEAD and Digital Equity.
Earlier this year, Governor Hobbs joined eX2 Technology in Navajo County to break ground on a substantial 100-mile open-access, dark fiber middle-mile network, furthering efforts to expand broadband access.
For a deeper understanding of the ConnectAllAZ initiative, visit ConnectAllAZ.com.
Read More Here
