Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced the completion of three broadband projects that have brought high-speed internet to over 500 rural locations in Cibola and McKinley counties, New Mexico. These projects were executed through the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE).
“Rural New Mexicans need reliable internet access and we’re delivering it,” said Gov. Lujan Grisham. “These projects deliver real results—connecting families to telehealth, students to online learning, and businesses to new markets.”
Jeff Lopez, director of OBAE, expressed satisfaction with the project's outcomes: “These projects define our mission to bring sustainable, reliable broadband to communities that lack this vital service. It’s extremely satisfying to connect locations that now have access to critical online programs, services and opportunities."
The Cibola County project was managed by OSO Internet Solutions. A nearly 50-mile fiber network was deployed using a $5,789,283 ARPA grant, connecting 109 homes in Pine Meadow Ranches near Ramah.
In McKinley County, Sacred Wind/Ethos Broadband utilized a $1,041,926 ARPA grant for fixed wireless systems serving 410 locations in Gallup's Western Skies subdivision and Thoreau.
Senator Martin Heinrich emphasized the importance of this funding: “I’m proud to welcome $6.8 million from legislation I helped pass into law to connect New Mexicans living in Cibola and McKinley counties to high-speed internet."
Senator Ben Ray Luján highlighted his role in securing federal funds: “The completion of these critical broadband projects will bring much-needed high-speed internet... As Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, I will continue to fight to deliver federal dollars..."
Representative Teresa Leger Fernández also remarked on the impact: “High-speed internet is not a luxury—it’s essential for school, work... The new connections in Gallup and Thoreau are life-changing for hundreds of families..."
Representative Gabe Vasquez noted how expanded broadband access aids daily life: "From online education platforms to telehealth medicine...the doors unlocked by expanded broadband access make day-to-day life easier..."
Sonia Nez from the Navajo Nation Broadband Office stated their collaboration success: "This achievement means more Navajo families now have the vital tools...to stay connected with loved ones..."
All completed projects offer customers download/upload speeds of 100/100 mbps.
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