The Navajo County Board of Supervisors and eX² Technology, a communications infrastructure group, have announced the commencement of construction on a new 100-mile open-access, dark fiber middle-mile network in north eastern Arizona. The area, which contains parts of the Hopi Indian reservation, the Navajo Nation, and Fort Apache Indian Reservation, will benefit from improved broadband quality as a result of this initiative. The new infrastructure is expected to enhance access to municipal fiber, telehealth, and education services within Navajo County.
After commissioning a Broadband Strategic Plan in early 2021, the County recognized a need for reliable and affordable internet services. The partnership with eX² Technology to construct a middle-mile fiber optic broadband system is a significant step towards meeting this need. Navajo County Chairman Jason E. Whiting expressed excitement about the project, highlighting its importance in ensuring reliable connectivity for residents and businesses, as well as supporting county operations. The agreement between the County and eX² Technology spans 20 years, and the network will also connect with other regional networks in Arizona and New Mexico.
Jay Jorgensen, chief operating officer of eX² Technology, emphasized the economic implications of the new open-access, middle-mile backbone for Navajo County. By providing high-speed internet access to underserved communities in the region, the network is expected to fuel economic growth. The project has received financial support from the Arizona Commerce Authority, including a $9.7 million Rural Arizona Broadband Development Grant. Additionally, the county has $10 million in funds earmarked for broadband expansion from the American Rescue Plan Act. Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, expressed gratitude to Governor Katie Hobbs and all partners involved in making the initiative possible.