In a significant announcement today, the White House, along with Nevada’s U.S. Senate delegation, revealed that Nevada has been granted over $43 million to extend high-speed internet accessibility. The main goal of the project is to provide fiber optic service and improve network resilience along a 431-mile open access network that runs along U.S. 93 from Las Vegas to Wells. The White House says that this project will directly help communities in Clark, Lincoln, White Pine, and Elko counties.
A Call for Enhanced Internet Access
U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen, a representative of Nevada, expressed the critical importance of high-speed internet access in our daily lives, highlighting the unfortunate reality that many communities in the state still lack basic internet services. In her statement, she emphasized her dedication to advocating for enhanced internet access for families across Nevada.
Broadband: A Necessity, Not a Luxury
Echoing similar sentiments, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto stressed that connecting the entire state to broadband is long overdue. She emphasized the necessity for all Nevadans, regardless of their geographical location, to have reliable access to broadband services. Cortez Masto hailed the federal funding as a significant step forward in bridging the gap and providing reliable internet access to thousands of individuals currently without such services.
Aligning with the ‘Internet for All’ Initiative
The program responsible for the initiative falls under the jurisdiction of the Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration, aligning with President Joe Biden’s comprehensive Internet for All initiative. With a focus on inclusivity, affordability, and widespread access, this funding aims to address the digital divide and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to connect and thrive in today’s digital landscape.
Affordable Connectivity for All
Cortez Masto’s office emphasized the need for residents in the affected areas to consult the federal Affordable Connectivity Program to determine if they qualify for discounted broadband services. This additional support will further enable individuals and families to benefit from the expanded network and gain access to the resources and opportunities that high-speed internet provides.
A Bright Future for Nevada’s Digital Landscape
With this substantial funding injection, Nevada is poised to propel its high-speed internet infrastructure forward, paving the way for greater connectivity and technological advancement across the state.