New Mexico received a $5.7 million grant from the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration through the Internet for All initiative.
The goal of these grants is to facilitate the deployment and access of high-speed internet across the nation, according to a Dec. 22 news release.
“Internet for All initiatives will support the provision of Internet connectivity for all with a focus on connecting unserved and underserved communities,” Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said, according to the release. “I commend Gov. Lujan Grisham for her work to advance reliable, high-speed Internet throughout New Mexico. This work is imperative to ensure equitable access to educational and economic opportunities.”
“Improved access to reliable high-speed internet means improved access to education, health care and economic opportunity. This major federal investment that will help deliver high-speed internet to New Mexicans is exactly why I worked so hard to pass the landmark Infrastructure Law,” New Mexico Sen. Martin Heinrich said, according to the release.
New Mexico Broadband Director Kelly Schlegel said the BEAD and Digital Equity programs provide the states an historic opportunity to address all aspects of the digital divide in a thoughtful, concerted manner, according to the release.
The initiative promises to have a lasting impact for all New Mexicans, Schlegel said, the release reported. The state will use the planning funds to help identify gaps in broadband access, adoption and use. It also will help create a stakeholder-driven plan of action.
