Arizona is gearing up to significantly enhance its broadband infrastructure following the National Telecommunications and Information Administration's (NTIA) approval of its final Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) proposal. Senators Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly have been at the forefront, prompting this advancement, which promises to extend high-speed broadband to over 70% of the state. This development includes locations across rural and Tribal areas, serving 118,170 locations, with an ambitious deployment cost of $446,123,359.
According to a press release from Senator Gallego's office, the BEAD program's approval is a significant step toward achieving widespread digital connectivity. Yet Senator Gallego has expressed concern that the current administration’s changes to the program could undermine this progress. He fears these changes might prevent the full application of the funds designated for Arizona, especially impacting Tribal areas such as Hopi, White Mountain Apache, and the Yavapai-Apache Nation. To address this, he is transparently urging a reversal of these modifications to ensure that "every community can get connected."
Senator Mark Kelly shares a common vision with Gallego regarding Arizona's digital future. "Every Arizonan, regardless of their zip code, deserves access to reliable, high-speed internet, and this final approval means many communities are one step closer to getting connected," Kelly stated, as reported by the same press release. He emphasized that work remains, pressing for the full extent of Arizona’s broadband funding to be made available according to congressional intent.
At the helm of the state, Governor Katie Hobbs has welcomed this historic investment, recognizing the pivotal role of broadband infrastructure in unlocking economic potential across Arizona. "Opportunity for every Arizonan means access to fast, affordable, reliable internet, no matter your zip code," she mentioned in the announcement, highlighting the importance of broadband access as a cornerstone in various sectors, including education, health care, and workforce development.
The federal funds poised to flow into Arizona stem from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, an initiative that Senator Gallego had an influential hand in shaping. With the NTIA’s recent program guidance satisfied, Arizona's proposed use of the allocated $993,112,231 in BEAD funding reflects a leap forward in bridging the digital divide. The State Broadband Office now has the green light to commence procurement and installation of critical fiber technology to underserved and unserved locations throughout the state.
