Arizona Commerce Authority Expands Graham County Broadband, Creating 5,000 Jobs
Updated
Updated · KJZZ · Jun 13
Arizona Commerce Authority Expands Graham County Broadband, Creating 5,000 Jobs
2 articles · Updated · KJZZ · Jun 13
Summary
Graham County is set to get new high-speed internet infrastructure under an Arizona Commerce Authority rural broadband push, with the agency saying the expansion will create 5,000 jobs.
More than 100 miles of fiber optic buildout is planned, targeting lower-income areas in communities including Bryce Eden and Fort Thomas.
Nick Capozzi, the agency’s broadband director, said the project is meant to widen access to telehealth, tele-education and small-business opportunities.
Federal grants are funding the work as part of the Arizona Broadband Development Grant Program, which the state says will serve about 100,000 households, businesses and community institutions statewide.
With complex state regulations on power and water, can Arizona's rural broadband projects avoid significant delays and budget overruns?
Is spending millions on fiber for 440 rural locations the best strategy, or could new satellite tech bridge the digital divide faster?
Arizona's Statewide Fiber Push: $967 Million BEAD Program to Connect 160,000 Homes and Anchor Institutions
Overview
On June 1, 2026, Graham County, Arizona, celebrated a major milestone with the launch of its new fiber network, marked by a 'first fiber lighting' event. This project brought high-speed internet to previously underserved areas, aiming to bridge the digital divide and boost economic growth in the region. The $5.5 million initiative was made possible through a collaborative funding effort, including a $4.8 million state grant, $250,000 from Graham County, and additional investment from Valley Telecom. This new network is a key step in connecting more homes and businesses, supporting education, healthcare, and local economic opportunities.