If we build it, they will come (with broadband internet)

ADOT's been busy of late installing fiber-optic conduit along Interstate 17 and Interstate 19. Soon, we'll be doing the same along Interstate 40 between Flagstaff and the California line.

As you can see in the photo above, the inside of this conduit looks a bit like a honeycomb, with a collection of tubes to carry a number of fiber-optic cables. Now that it's installed using federal funding aimed at expanding broadband internet, private internet service providers can lease space in this conduit to get broadband service to homes and businesses beyond the freeway right of way.

We recently shared news that under a public-private partnership eX2 Technology will operate, maintain and lease space in this fiber-optic conduit with of a goal of expanding broadband internet access beyond the Phoenix and Tucson areas.

As Governor Katie Hobbs said, "This investment of a robust statewide middle-mile program will connect Arizonans in rural and tribal lands to quality broadband, providing families access to good jobs, quality health care and education, and positioning Arizona to continue its dynamic growth for years."

In addition to the benefits to rural broadband connectivity, ADOT plans to use the fiber-optic conduit to provide intelligent transportation systems technology, such as overhead message boards, traffic cameras, weather stations and wrong-way driving detection. The infrastructure also will help lay the groundwork for emerging technologies like connected and automated vehicles.

ADOT is working closely with the Governor's Office and the Arizona Commerce Authority's State Broadband Office to advance broadband access in underserved areas of the state and work toward a goal of universal broadband access for all Arizonans. Stay tuned in the coming months for more exciting announcements!

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