Major Investment Brings Internet to Rural Areas
Governor Joe Lombardo announced that Nevada has submitted its final plan to bring high-speed internet to nearly 50,000 homes and businesses across the state. The $375 million project aims to connect every remaining location in Nevada that currently lacks reliable internet service.
The plan goes to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration for final approval. If approved, construction will begin and continue over the next four years.
How the Plan Works
The project uses a mix of different technologies to reach every corner of the state. These include fiber-optic cables, hybrid systems, wireless networks, and satellite internet. The goal is to make sure no community gets left behind, no matter how remote.
“Connecting every Nevadan to reliable, high-speed internet has been one of my top priorities since day one, and today we are delivering on that promise,” Governor Lombardo said.
Brian Mitchell, who runs the Governor’s Office of Science, Innovation, and Technology, led the effort. “This plan ensures that every Nevadan, no matter where they live, will finally have access to reliable high-speed internet,” Mitchell said.
Where the Money Comes From
The $375 million comes from several sources:
- $170 million from federal BEAD funds
- $100 million from State Fiscal Recovery Fund
- $52 million from Capital Projects Fund
- $53 million from private companies
Most of the money comes from federal programs that were already set aside for broadband projects. Nevada competed with other states to get these funds.
Competitive Process Keeps Costs Down
Nevada’s team ran a competitive bidding process over 13 months. More than 2,700 applications came in from 21 different internet providers. This competition helped drive down costs for taxpayers.
The state has already committed $275 million to other broadband projects. Combined with this new plan, it represents the largest internet investment in Nevada’s history.
Timeline and Next Steps
Projects funded by state recovery funds have already started. The federal government is expected to approve the main BEAD program before the end of 2025.
Once approved, construction teams will begin installing equipment across Nevada. The work should be finished within four years.
Some areas will get service sooner than others, depending on how complex the installation is. Remote mountain areas will likely take longer than towns near existing internet infrastructure.
Why This Matters
Internet access affects many parts of daily life. Students need it for online classes and homework. Businesses use it to reach customers and process payments. Families rely on it for telehealth appointments and staying connected.
Rural areas often struggle with slow or unreliable internet service. This can make it harder for local businesses to compete and for residents to access services that urban areas take for granted.
The pandemic showed how important internet access is when many people had to work and learn from home.
Looking Ahead
Nevada expects this investment to pay off in economic development and opportunities for rural communities. Better internet could attract new businesses and help existing ones grow.
The plan also aims to improve public safety communications and give rural schools better access to online learning resources.
Success will be measured by how many locations actually get connected and whether the service meets speed requirements. The state will track progress and report results publicly.
Federal approval is still needed, but Nevada officials are confident the plan meets all requirements. Other states are watching to see how Nevada’s approach works.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Nevada News & Views. This article was written with the assistance of AI. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
