City of Alva & Pioneer Broadband Services, Possible Joint Venture

PROJECT PURPOSE

To enhance the capabilities of services for the well-being of all citizens, Woods County Economic Development (WCED) and Pioneer Broadband Services (PBS) will join together in a joint venture, if approved by city leaders, to invest in the digital infrastructure of The City of Alva, expanding broadband services throughout the city. PBS is dedicated to providing affordable internet services and will build, operate and maintain a Fiber Network in the city. In addition to Pioneer deploying broadband services to the city, they will also employ up to five residents in the Alva area to assist with completing the project and maintaining the service for the foreseeable future. Pioneer Broadband Services intends to have a local presence in Alva, bringing more tax revenue to the city and providing the best possible customer experience.

EVIDENCE

None

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

? The City of Alva has a median age of 29.3 which is almost eight percent younger than the U.S. average. Students, young workers, and young business entrepreneurs in rural Oklahoma need quality and affordable internet capabilities. During the pandemic, students and business owners were forced to work and learn from home. In the article: ?Many students in rural Oklahoma don?t have internet access? Dale Denwalt, The Oklahoman, notes that ?It?s estimated that one of every four Oklahoma students don?t have high-speed internet access at home.? In Alva, the median household income is almost $7,000 less than the U.S. average. This means the internet must be affordable for households to support the cost. Pioneer Broadband Services participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The benefits program ensures that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare, and more. They offer discounts for households that qualify, ensuring they get the internet service they need.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

? Project performance will be measured by the completion of the installation of fiber networks and providing affordable, quality internet to the residents and City of Alva and businesses. Upon completion, Pioneer intends to complete a survey, determining service performance and satisfaction with the internet. ? The City of Alva and Pioneer Broadband Services are familiar with the Compliance and Reporting Guidance for State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds and understand our reporting responsibilities. All documentation will be kept, organized, and updated by OEDA and Pioneer?s Accounting Department, ensuring accurate reports.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

Able to continue operation without additional funding from the State of Oklahoma