SAFFORD — Graham County, in partnership with Valley Telecom, is seeking a grant to bring broadband to more parts of the county.
The $4.5 million grant is available through the Arizona Commerce Authority and, if approved, would help expand broadband to Pima, Eden, Bryce and Fort Thomas.
“I’ve had people ask, ‘What does the county get out of this?’ Really, we don’t get anything monetarily,” said County Manager Dustin Welker. “What we get out of this is supporting our citizens, providing a high quality of life, opportunity for education and development. It’s just a great project from the ACA.”
To qualify for the grant, the county must match with $250,000; however, the Board of Supervisors said that money would be coming out of Arizona Recovery Plan funds the county received from the federal government.
“I just think it’s a great opportunity for growth and to solidify the future of opportunity to that part of our community,” said Supervisor John Howard. “I’m glad we’re partnering up (with Valley Telecom) for this.”
Valley Telecom is currently expanding its internet services in Graham County from Safford into Thatcher.
