Broadband connectivity is crucial for the growth and security of our community in Cochise County, both now and in the future. We are living in an unprecedented time and broadband infrastructure will be critical in shaping our rural county. We saw this demonstrated with COVID-19 when students were unable to connect to classes and employees were not able to work remotely because of insufficient internet connectivity.
Like water and electricity, broadband has become essential infrastructure that can improve education, remote healthcare and economic growth. It will help bridge the digital divide between high and low-income as well as urban and rural Americans. Deploying broadband will require significant financial investment and partnerships between various organizations.
The selected consultant will be commissioned to design and conduct a study to determine the optimal way to provide enhanced and reliable Broadband Internet Service to rural areas lacking appropriate coverage, as well as urban centers requiring increased speed and access. While fiber optics will be the preferred transmission medium, other media and technologies will be considered based on cost and speeds. The COUNTY will work in tandem with the consultant to ensure the completion of the study to the satisfaction of the review committee, as well as provide any technical assistance that might be necessary. Upon completion, the COUNTY will pursue the implementation goals outlined in the Study and seek further funding to do so.