In north eastern Arizona, the Navajo County Board of Supervisors and eX² Technology have begun construction on a new 100-mile open-access, dark fiber middle-mile network. The initiative aims to enhance broadband quality in the region by providing reliable, affordable internet for residents and businesses.
Navajo County Chairman Jason E. Whiting expressed excitement about the partnership with eX² Technology to construct the middle-mile fiber optic network. The 20-year agreement will interlink with other networks in the region, including Arizona and New Mexico, creating an economic growth engine for Navajo County.
Jay Jorgensen, the chief operating officer of eX² Technology, believes this open-access backbone will serve as a catalyst for innovation and progress in underserved communities throughout the region. The Arizona Commerce Authority granted Navajo County $9.7 million in Rural Arizona Broadband Development Grant funds, in addition to $10 million from the American Rescue Plan Act for broadband expansion.
The new network is expected to ensure the continuity of county operations and provide reliable connectivity for years to come. Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, expressed gratitude to Governor Katie Hobbs and all partners involved in the initiative. The project aims to create significant opportunities for underprivileged residents by delivering high-quality broadband services throughout the region.
This announcement marks a major milestone in Navajo County’s efforts to improve broadband access and create economic opportunities for its residents. With this new infrastructure in place, businesses will be able to expand their reach and access more advanced technologies than ever before.
In conclusion, Navajo County’s partnership with eX² Technology is set to transform how people live and work in north eastern Arizona by providing them with high-speed internet access that was previously unavailable. This investment will not only benefit businesses but also improve healthcare delivery through telehealth services.
As Navajo County continues its quest towards digital transformation, this project represents a significant step forward towards achieving its goal of providing affordable internet access to all its residents while fostering economic growth in underserved communities across the region.