360 Broadband
ATOKA COUNTY – In a significant move to bridge the digital divide in rural Oklahoma, 360 Broadband has launched an expansive broadband project to provide high-speed internet access to underserved residents and businesses in Atoka County. The project, valued at $6.8 million, was celebrated in a launch event attended by local officials, community leaders, and stakeholders on Tuesday, October 22.
The project aims to cover 81.2 miles of fiber backbone, with an additional 10.2 miles of service drops that will connect the backbone to individual homes and businesses. This expansion represents a historic advancement in digital inclusion for the community, supporting essential services like remote work, telemedicine, and distance learning for local residents.
A Collaborative Effort for Community Impact
The event was attended by notable figures, including Dustin Reid, Director of Business Development at 360 Broadband, Drew Beverage, Chief Operating Officer of 360 Broadband, and Mike Sanders, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Broadband
Office. Speaker of the House Charles McCall and Senator David Bullard (Senate District 6) also highlighted the project’s importance to the future of rural Oklahoma.
The $6.8 million project is primarily funded through the American Rescue Plan Act State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (ARPA-SLFRF), complemented by private investment from 360 Broadband. This marks one of over 125 projects administered by the Oklahoma Broadband Office to expand connectivity, with an estimated 50,000 homes and businesses across 55 counties expected to benefit.
A Step Toward Digital Equity
“This expansion project is a critical step in leveling the playing field for Atoka County residents and businesses,” said Dustin Reid, Director of Business Development at 360 Broadband. “Access to high-speed internet is essential for participating fully in today’s digital economy, and this project will ensure that Atoka County is not left behind.”
The event included an official project overview, comments from local leaders, and a groundbreaking ceremony, symbolizing the start of construction. Community members and press representatives had opportunities to ask questions and discuss the long-term impact of the project.
