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An Oklahoma tribal nation and two telephone companies have been awarded .4 million to expand broadband access in rural Oklahoma. This funding is part of a larger 7 million investment by the US Department of Agriculture to enhance high-speed internet access in rural areas across 22 states and the Marshall Islands. The initiative is known as ReConnect.

In Oklahoma, the disbursements are allocated as follows:
– Pawnee Nation will receive .9 million to expand access in Pawnee and Payne Counties.
– Oklahoma Western Telephone will receive .9 million to expand access in counties within the Choctaw Nation.
– Cimarron Telephone Company will receive an additional million grant and a million loan to expand access in Muscogee Nation.

This program is established under the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was passed in 2021. Oklahoma has previously seen other companies receive grants from the program, with two providers obtaining approximately million in June.

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack emphasized the importance of these grants in improving infrastructure in rural areas. He stated that by keeping rural America connected with reliable and high-speed internet, it enables the flow of new and innovative ideas throughout the country while creating well-paying jobs.

The expansion of broadband access in rural areas is crucial for bridging the digital divide and providing equal opportunities for education, telehealth, economic growth, and more. These investments will play a significant role in enhancing the connectivity and overall quality of life for residents in rural Oklahoma.

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