Chisholm Broadband, LLC

PROJECT PURPOSE

Expand broadband capacity directly to homes, businesses, and local governments in historically underserved rural communities that have been affected by COVID-19. We will provide high-speed broadband access for remote work, school and tele-medicine as well as access to online state services. By utilizing existing fiber-optic infrastructure we will extend the high bandwidth and low latencies benefits of fiber optic technology wirelessly, providing internet connections that exceed federal standards directly to end users. This provides much needed connectivity now, with a future proof expansion plan to meet internet needs into the future. Funds requested in this submission will go directly to connect customers, not building out middle mile networks and internal upgrades. As we leverage currently deployed, and previously funded, fiber networks of tier 1 and tier 2 internet providers, we will extend access to the most vulnerable citizens and areas. High-speed internet is essential for rural communities to continue to be viable into the future. This will allow Oklahomans to live where they want while still having access to the ever increasing need for internet connectivity that has become necessary due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the way we interact with each other, businesses, and government.

EVIDENCE

None

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

Rural communities and those living in unincorporated areas have been disportionately affected by the rapid and unexpected move to digital connectivity caused by the COVID-19 pandemic primarily because of lack of access to the internet. Oklahoma students that attend rural schools do not have access to sufficient internet resources at home to productively continue their education. Rural school districts that have funds to provide a digital device like a laptop or Chromebook still struggle because students and teachers alike did not have the necessary internet access to utilize these resources. Farm families are affected by the pull away from traditional farm life as the younger generation have to leave home to tap into the many opportunities afforded those that have access to the internet. Rural hospitals, assisted living, nursing homes,and mental health facilities struggle to attract and keep the necessary trained staff to provide vital services because of lack of connectivity and the economic benefits that a good internet connection provides. Without an internet connection, rural communities will have increasingly less access to government services as Oklahoma continues its initiative to move services to internet-based platforms.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

Live real time network and customer monitoring systems will be utilized in conjunction with regularly updated coverage maps. Access to this information can be provided to regulators on a regular basis and as requested. New customer numbers will be reviewed monthly and reported as requested. Enterprise accounting and inventory control systems are in place to track all funds and materials designated for this project.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

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