Tanana Chiefs Conference is excited to announce alongside Doyon, Alaska Communications Systems, and Alan Davidson, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information, a $50.6 million grant to deliver accessible, affordable broadband internet service to several Interior rural villages.
The infrastructure is expected to take two seasons to reach full implementation, in addition to planning and environmental reviews. The goal is to have the system operational by summer 2025.
The project will lay a terrestrial fiber optic cable from Fairbanks to the Yukon River Bridge. From there, the cable will move upriver to Fort Yukon and downriver to Tanana; delivering broadband to Beaver, Stevens Village, and Rampart. The grant funds phase 1 of a 3-part mission to connect up to 20 Yukon and Kuskokwim River village communities with fiber-optic cable, supplying high speed internet at urban Alaskan pricing.
Sharon Hildebrand, Vice President of TCC, cites low operation levels, accessibility, and affordability of broadband Internet as issues causing people to leave rural villages. “Because it’s so expensive, village residents are having to sit outside of the school just to check their email.” Hildebrand believes the most important aspect of accessibility to broadband comes in the form of increased employment and work opportunities. “This will ensure quality work opportunities are available in the villages.”
Brian Ridley, TCC President was humbled by the announcement. “We are grateful to Doyon for taking the lead on this opportunity. This is the first reward after four years of collaboration on how to bridge the digital gap to our rural communities. We look forward to the day when all of our Tribes have digital parity and will continue to work towards that goal.”