Navajo County Chairman Jason E. Whiting expressed excitement about the partnership with eX² Technology to construct the new 100-mile open-access, dark fiber middle-mile network in north eastern Arizona. This initiative is a result of the county’s Broadband Strategic Plan commissioned in early 2021 and aims to enhance broadband quality with this new infrastructure. The network will improve access to municipal fiber, telehealth, and education.
Jay Jorgensen, the chief operating officer of eX² Technology, believes this open-access backbone will serve as an economic growth engine for Navajo County by providing high-speed internet access to underserved communities. 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.
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.
The new network is expected to ensure the continuity of county operations and provide reliable connectivity for years to come. This initiative will benefit residents and businesses alike by providing reliable, affordable internet access that was previously unavailable in some areas of north eastern Arizona.