Oklahoma's push to expand broadband services with federal funding took center stage in western Oklahoma this week, as eight new projects totaling over $17 million were launched.

A ceremony in Arapaho, hosted by the Oklahoma Broadband Office (OBO) and Dobson Fiber, marked the start of the initiative, which will bring high-speed internet to Beckham, Custer, Greer, Washita, and other counties. The $17.3 million project combines $11.6 million in federal grants from ARPA State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) with $5.7 million in matching funds from Dobson Fiber. The effort will connect 1,829 homes and businesses to broadband via fiber optic technology.

The event, held at the Custer County Courthouse, was attended by OBO and Dobson Fiber leaders, local legislators, and municipal officials. The broadband funding was approved earlier this year by the Oklahoma Broadband Governing Board.