Mohave Today

The Arizona Commerce Authority recently awarded the Arizona Rural Broadband Development grant to local organizations to create broadband infrastructure in rural areas to bolster economic growth and improve quality of life.

“These grants are a crucial investment in rural Arizona,” Gov. Doug Ducey told the Arizona Commerce Authority. “Access to fast, reliable  internet will aid economic development, enhance educational  opportunities, strengthen health care and improve public safety across rural Arizona — and we’re just getting started.”

Development grants, given to organizations whose broadband expansion projects are ready for construction, were awarded to Sparklight, Mojave Electric Coop and Commnet. Planning grants were awarded to Coconino County, Gila County, the Town of Springerville and the City of St. Johns. The sum of the awards was $3 million, which was allocated in Ducey's 2020 budget.

“We are confident these projects will help bridge the connectivity gap between urban and rural communities by enhancing connectivity for rural Arizona’s citizens, businesses, healthcare facilities and schools,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. 

Broadband Communities Magazine said the governor is in favor of connecting all parts of the growing state. He recently announced that he will triple the amount of funding available for connecting rural communities to broadband access. Ducey also plans to invest $50 million in installing broadband along rural interstates. It is suggested these Smart Highway Corridors will make the roads safer and connect rural residents to more services.

The Arizona Commerce Authority said reliable broadband internet service has "become an essential element of  21st-century life. It’s as ubiquitous as electricity, water and transportation. Increased connectivity impacts public health and safety, education, healthcare and transportation across both rural and metropolitan communities." 

In Arizona's Statewide Broadband Strategic Plan, the Arizona Department of Administration said that rural and urban areas must have the same level of service.