Historic investment will bring high-speed internet to over 55,000 Oklahoma homes and businesses

With a unanimous vote, the Oklahoma Broadband Governing Board approved a sweeping broadband infrastructure expansion plan for 142 projects in 57 counties. Once all projects are complete, more than 55,000 homes and businesses will finally have access to high-speed internet service. 

“The board’s action is a giant step forward to improving quality of life and fostering digital growth throughout Oklahoma, but especially in rural areas,” said Mike Sanders, executive director of the Oklahoma Broadband Office (OBO). “Access to reliable and affordable broadband will enable better educational and healthcare services, stimulate economic development, and empower Oklahomans to leverage the online technologies of the future, regardless of zip code.” 

The Legislature designated ARPA State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to create and administer the broadband investment grant program. Grant funds of $374 million will be combined with $90 million in matching funds from 31 internet service providers (ISPs) who pledged the funds to help shrink Oklahoma’s digital divide. 

“As our state prepares to attract the jobs of the future, high-speed broadband is a critical component to keep Oklahoma competitive,” said House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka. 

The OBO received hundreds of applications and over $5.1 billion in funding requests. Each proposal underwent a thorough evaluation, with the final list encompassing 142 approved projects set to provide broadband to nearly a quarter of locations currently without service. All approved projects must be completed by the end of 2026. 

Looking ahead, the OBO is set to administer the next grant program, allocating $159 million from the ARPA Capital Projects Fund to further expand high-speed internet services in the state.