President Joe Biden on June 26, 2023 announced $42 billion will be distributed across the country to expand internet access, including $1 billion for Alaska.
Hallie Bissett, the director of network services for Tribal Ready Inc. and former chair of Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s broadband task force, called the $1 billion in funding “once in a generation.” under the Obama administration, but communities remain disconnected. While Bissett expects the state to encounter some of the same challenges — like limited availability of fiber optic cable — she said she is “absolutely” more confident now, given the sheer amount of money in this allocation and the coordination already taking place between the state, municipalities and tribes.
“This, combined with the other federal programs, is going to be meaningful,” O’Connor said. “Over time, as everything gets built, I think it’s going to virtually close the digital divide in Alaska.” In statements on Monday, Murkowski, Sullivan and Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola said the $1 billion is significant.