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Arizona Secures Nearly $1 Billion Federal Boost for Broadband Expansion

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Arizona receives nearly $1 billion in federal funding for broadband expansion

Arizona is on the path to achieving widespread high-speed broadband internet access, thanks to nearly $1 billion in federal funding. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved the state’s proposals under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program.

Gov. Katie Hobbs emphasized the critical importance of this funding, stating, “Broadband is the thread that connects all of us… we are going to make sure our networks are accessible, reliable, and affordable for every Arizonan.” The funding will exceed $993 million to enhance internet infrastructure across the state.

Hobbs pointed out that high-speed internet should be regarded as a necessity, not a luxury. “The reality is that broadband plays an essential role in people’s lives; whether it is access to education, basic healthcare services, applying for jobs, working remotely or starting a small business, Internet connectivity is a necessity,” she said.

The BEAD program is part of the Biden administration’s $42 billion “Internet for All” initiative, authorized through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo remarked that reliable internet is vital in the 21st century, facilitating access to jobs, healthcare, and education.

Alan Davison, assistant secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information, lauded Arizona’s proposal, stating it enables the state to transition from planning to action. Once deployment goals are met, any unspent funds may be redirected toward promoting internet adoption, training, and workforce development.

The Arizona Commerce Authority has outlined four objectives for BEAD program deployment: enhancing broadband access, closing the digital divide, addressing affordability and equity issues, and fostering economic growth and job creation.

Arizona Commerce Authority President and CEO Sandra Watson described the announcement as a significant milestone, resulting from extensive collaboration with local partners. “Access to reliable, high-speed internet is closely connected with economic opportunity, especially in our rural communities,” she added.

Despite these advancements, a significant portion of Arizona households—about 12%—still lack access to adequate internet speeds. The Federal Communication Commission’s Broadband Map indicates that many of these underserved areas are rural and tribal communities, which face challenges due to geographic diversity.

A report from the NTIA highlighted the adverse effects of limited internet access on economic opportunities, education, healthcare, and social inclusion. U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly stated, “The funding provided will give every Arizonan access to reliable high-speed internet, regardless of where they live.”

Sen. Kyrsten Sinema reinforced this perspective, asserting that the funding will make internet services more accessible and affordable for all Arizonans. The state’s significant investment in broadband infrastructure signals a transformative step toward digital equity and economic empowerment.