# Pima County Launches Broadband Expansion

Pima County has commenced construction on a significant Middle Mile broadband expansion project funded by a **$30.3 million** grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This two-year initiative will build a 134-mile open-access fiber optic network around the urban core of Pima County, Arizona, targeting underserved and rural areas to improve high-speed internet access, support economic development, and promote digital inclusion.

- The project is a key opportunity for contractors specializing in fiber optic network construction and telecommunications infrastructure within Arizona.
- Procurement professionals should note the involvement of multiple government entities including Pima County, NTIA, and the Arizona Commerce Authority, indicating potential collaboration and compliance requirements.
- This expansion aligns with federal and state priorities to close the digital divide, suggesting future funding and procurement opportunities in broadband infrastructure.
- Companies offering advanced broadband technologies and open-access network solutions may find strategic advantages in engaging with this and similar projects in the region.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Information Technology
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** September 28, 2026

### Government Entities
- Pima County
- Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA)
- National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA)
- Office of Digital Inclusion (ODI)
- Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT)

### Key Quotes
> Access to high-speed internet is not a privilege, it’s a right. It’s imperative that we close the digital divide for our rural residents so that internet service providers can focus on expanding service, speed and reliability.
> — Jennifer Allen, Chair, Pima County Board of Supervisors

### Sources
- [Pima County breaks ground on broadband expansion - AZ Big Media](https://azbigmedia.com/business/pima-county-breaks-ground-on-broadband-expansion) - AZ Big Media