Navajo County and eX² Technology Partner to Build 100-Mile Dark Fiber Middle-Mile Network in Arizona, Promoting Economic Growth and High-Speed Internet Access

Navajo County, Arizona and eX² Technology, a communications infrastructure group, have announced the start of construction on a new 100-mile open-access, dark fiber middle-mile network in north eastern Arizona. The partnership aims to enhance broadband quality for residents and businesses in the region.

Navajo County Chairman Jason E. Whiting expressed excitement about the partnership with eX² Technology to construct the middle-mile fiber optic network. He believes this open-access backbone will serve as an economic growth engine for Navajo County by providing high-speed internet access to underserved communities.

The 20-year agreement will interlink with other networks in the region, including Arizona and New Mexico. Jay Jorgensen, the chief operating officer of eX² Technology, believes this new infrastructure will create significant opportunities for underprivileged residents by delivering high-quality broadband services throughout the region.

Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority expressed gratitude to Governor Katie Hobbs and all partners involved in the initiative. She believes that this project aims to create significant opportunities for underprivileged residents by delivering high-quality broadband services throughout the region.

The new network is expected to ensure the continuity of county operations and provide reliable connectivity for years to come. This initiative is a result of Navajo County’s Broadband Strategic Plan commissioned in early 2021 and will provide reliable, affordable internet for residents and businesses. In addition to $10 million from American Rescue Plan Act for broadband expansion, Navajo County was granted $9.7 million in Rural Arizona Broadband Development Grant funds by Arizona Commerce Authority for this project.

Overall, this partnership between Navajo County and eX² Technology is expected to improve access to municipal fiber, telehealth, education, and other essential services in north eastern Arizona while also boosting economic growth in underserved communities throughout the region.