Arizona approved $993 million in funding to provide reliable internet services to every resident. The approval follows more than a year of stakeholder engagement, public feedback, and statewide planning. “Broadband is the thread that connects all of us, and with this funding, we are going to make sure our networks are accessible, reliable, and affordable for every Arizonan,” said Governor Katie Hobbs.
Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, said the announcement represents a historic milestone that follows countless hours of engaging with local community partners. She noted that access to reliable, high-speed internet is closely connected with economic opportunity, especially in rural communities. The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration approved Missouri and Tennessee’s initial proposals for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program.
This approval enables the states to request access to funding and begin implementation. Missouri can now request over $1.7 billion and Tennessee over $813 million. Missouri Governor Mike Parson said the state has already made historic investments in internet connectivity to support business, agriculture, health care, education, and more.
Arizona’s broadband connectivity milestone
He looks forward to putting the funds to good use by bringing quality connections to every Missourian within the next five years. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced that the state has opened the Broadband Grants Management Portal for user registration.
Registering is the first step in applying for funds from Kentucky’s $1.1 billion allocation. Internet service providers, local governments, and nonprofits are all eligible to receive funds. The pre-qualification phase will open on August 14 and close on September 13.
Users are encouraged to plan ahead and enter their information in advance of the portal closing. The submission of applications for funding is expected to open in November. “Every Kentuckian deserves access to high-speed internet, because it’s a necessity for work, school, health care, and so much more,” Beshear said.
“We are making sure everybody gets connected – and that they can get reliable service at an affordable price.”
