#broadband-expansion

#broadband-expansion

The Freestate Middle Mile Network, which is publicly funded and publicly owned, showcases our state's financial stewardship and strategic approach to improving the digital landscape.

The Oklahoma Broadband Governing Board has recommended over $53 million in grants to expand middle-mile broadband, emphasizing the state's commitment to enhancing digital connectivity.

"Our expansion of the GigaZone® network aims to bring high-speed fiber optic broadband to over 2,000 additional locations in St. Louis County, enhancing connectivity for local residents."

"With our established operations in Liberty County, this grant allows us to accelerate our vision of making reliable, high-speed internet available to even more communities," said Scott Borel at Highline.

Mississippi has made notable strides in broadband expansion, with a recent approval for 12 new infrastructure projects funded by the U.S. Treasury, reaching 9,000 households.

Comcast is covering approximately $45 million of the $55 million broadband buildout in Indiana, amounting to 83% of the project's total costs, demonstrating significant investment in expanding internet connectivity.

"We've been working behind the scenes to be ready," said Misty Ann Giles - Director of the Department of Administration and Chief Operating Officer for the state of Montana - in an interview with Telecompetitor. 'Some states' processes are different, but we started building the portal in January. We didn't want to be the state that, when the [proposal] approval came through, was scrambling. We wanted to be ready.' This proactive approach enabled Montana to open its BEAD application portal quickly.