Grand Canyon Times

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has initiated a project to install 201 miles of fiber-optic conduit along Interstate 40, extending from Flagstaff to the California border. This initiative aims to enhance broadband internet access across northern Arizona.

This development builds on previous efforts where fiber-optic conduits were installed along Interstate 17 between Phoenix and Flagstaff, and I-19 from Tucson to Nogales. The expansion is facilitated by state legislation permitting private broadband providers to install, operate, and maintain telecommunications equipment within ADOT's right of way.

"This initiative to expand broadband internet access will connect residents with educational opportunities, telemedicine and much more," said ADOT Director Jennifer Toth. "Expanding to include I-40 across northwestern Arizona helps advance Governor Hobbs' vision of a thriving Arizona for everyone by helping make broadband widely available, reliable and affordable for all."

Internet service providers can lease the new fiber-optic conduit to broaden broadband services. Last year, ADOT partnered with Governor Katie Hobbs and the Arizona Commerce Authority in a public-private partnership with eX2 Technology, based in Nebraska, to manage this middle-fiber-optic infrastructure.

Funding for these advancements includes over $1 billion from federal programs such as the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program and Digital Equity Program. These represent significant investments aimed at achieving universal broadband access throughout Arizona. The State Broadband Office, part of the Arizona Commerce Authority, oversees these initiatives.

"Arizona's middle-mile conduit expansion is central to achieving 100% broadband access for all Arizonans, and we're excited for this latest milestone," stated Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. "We're grateful to Governor Hobbs, the Arizona Department of Transportation, and all our partners working together on this historic effort to connect all of Arizona."

Beyond enhancing rural connectivity, the fiber-optic installation supports intelligent transportation systems technology such as traffic cameras and wrong-way driving detection. It also prepares infrastructure for emerging technologies like connected vehicles.

During construction on I-40 between California and Flagstaff, motorists will experience intermittent shoulder and lane restrictions starting south of Kingman at milepost 44. Work progresses about one mile daily with restrictions from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., aiming for completion by summer 2026. More details are available on azdot.gov/projects under Northcentral or azdot.gov/broadband.

Further information about statewide broadband expansion can be found at azcommerce.com/broadband.