FOX 9’s Adam Klepp spoke to Senator Kirsten Cinema about how some of this funding is set aside specifically for counties like Yuma.
Yuma, Arizona (KECY, KYMA) – $99 million in federal funding is coming to Arizona for a high-speed internet project in Arizona.
Some of the funds approved today are set aside specifically for counties like Yuma.
“Communities that have long been overlooked and underserved by the federal government have an opportunity to get their fair share,” Cinema said.
Now that funding has been approved, county legislators can make proposals for grants to start new broadband projects or more ongoing projects.
Cinema said the coronavirus pandemic has shown how important reliable and affordable internet access is.
Some federal funds will also provide subsidies to private companies to encourage the expansion of Internet services.
“Even if it’s not profitable, the federal government thinks it’s very important that Americans have access to this,” Cinema said.
On the farm, JV Smith Company’s Matt McGuire says he tackles broadband issues every day.
“You can go down 1st Avenue here, but you can’t stream video. .
Beyond basic functionality, McGuire adds that expansion is essential to implementing the technology in the field.
Drones, laser weeders, and other agricultural technologies all need reliable internet access to function.
“Without broadband, all this technology is useless and crops cannot grow well. Potential is lost,” McGuire said.
Arizona has also submitted plans for the remainder of the Capital Improvement Fund, and these applications are currently under review by the Treasury Department.
