Charter Communications, operating under the Spectrum brand, has announced plans to invest $1.3 billion in upgrading and expanding broadband infrastructure and technology in Texas. The goal is to provide symmetrical and multi-gigabit speeds across the state, while also funding rural broadband expansion for unserved and underserved homes and small businesses. Charter Communications currently serves over 32 million customers in 41 states. Texas Governor Greg Abbott expressed his support for the investment, stating that it will provide Texans with the same internet access as those in big cities, benefiting the economy, education, and healthcare facilities.
The investment comes after Texans voted in favor of Proposition 8, which amends the state constitution to create a fund for financing broadband and telecommunications infrastructure. The fund aims to close the digital divide and ensure access to faster and affordable internet connections. The $5 billion fund, financed through state legislature allocations, gifts, grants, and investment earnings, will be used to expand high-speed internet throughout Texas. Additionally, the federal government’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program will provide grants and support for investment in high-speed internet projects.
The initiative reflects a growing movement in the US to expand high-speed internet access, particularly in rural areas where it has been challenging to obtain. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of broadband connections for everyday tasks and remote work. The new fund in Texas aims to make broadband and telecommunications services more accessible throughout the state, especially in rural areas.
The $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program, funded by the federal infrastructure bill, will allocate funds to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five US territories. The program aims to address the lack of high-speed internet access and digital equity. Each state and territory has its own plans for broadband expansion, and the federal government’s Broadband USA website provides resources to explore these initiatives.
The federal plan includes funding for digital equity and inclusion efforts, Indigenous governments and organizations, and grants and loans for building internet infrastructure in rural areas. However, the Affordable Connectivity Program, a $30-a-month broadband subsidy for eligible households, may end next year if Congress does not extend it. The program has been crucial in ensuring internet access for low-income households.
As the broadband expansion efforts continue, individuals in Texas and other states can explore various broadband service providers to find the best options for their needs. CNET offers comprehensive guides on broadband coverage, including information on providers such as Spectrum, AT&T Fiber, T-Mobile, and Verizon.
In conclusion, Charter Communications’ $1.3 billion investment in broadband infrastructure upgrade in Texas, along with the state’s new fund and federal initiatives, aims to bridge the digital divide and provide Texans with improved internet access.
