New Mexico has recently obtained the green light from the federal government to pursue a hefty $675 million in federal grant funds aimed at enhancing high-speed internet access throughout the state, as announced by officials on Monday. This approval enables the New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion to commence the process of applying for the grant. The state has a year to submit a final proposal for consideration.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham stated that this funding will enable New Mexico to narrow the digital divide and establish equal opportunities across the state, especially benefiting rural and tribal communities. Current federal and state data indicate that 16% of New Mexico’s almost 874,000 serviceable broadband locations lack adequate coverage.
Officials in the government anticipate that this initiative will result in connecting tens of thousands of households in New Mexico to the internet for the very first time. This undertaking aims to significantly improve internet access and quality for residents who are currently underserved or lack access to broadband services.
