COCONINO COUNTY — In today’s world, a strong, high speed internet connection is essential; in Coconino County, there are unserved and underserved areas that could use a boost.
The State of Arizona recently received $993.1 million in federal funding for the BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) program to do just that.
The program requires the Arizona Commerce Authority to allow customers to challenge the accuracy of their internet speed. Residents have until May 14 to participate in a series of speed tests to determine if their area is unserved or underserved by broadband internet. The BEAD funds must be spent in these unserved or underserved areas.
“Equity in access to broadband internet is crucial for our rural communities,” said Jeronimo Vasquez, Chair of the Board and Supervisor for District 2. “Coconino County is the second largest county in the US and the goal of participating in the speed test is to secure funding to deliver new or better internet service.”
Residents can sign up to run three speed tests on three different days. All residents need to participate is a fixed address, ISP information, and the advertised speed of the internet service purchased.
“This is our opportunity to update the broadband map for Coconino County,” said Mary Knight, Coconino County Rural Broadband Manager. “Bringing stronger broadband internet to our residents is a priority that can lead to better jobs, education, and communication.”
Data from the speed tests will update the state’s broadband map, which will be used to determine which locations are eligible for funding through the BEAD program.
If the only internet available to you is through a cell phone provider or satellite internet, like Starlink, it is likely that your area has already been mapped as unserved. Check the current map at az.broadbandnavigator.com.
For more information about the BEAD program or assistance with the speed tests visit coconino.az.gov/broadband.