Oklahoma Broadband Expands High-Speed Access in Rural Areas
$5.4 Million Internet Expansion Connects Rural Oklahoma
Two broadband projects totaling $5.4 million launched Friday near Welch in Craig County, marking a major step in expanding high-speed internet access across northeastern Oklahoma.
The Oklahoma Broadband Office (OBO) and The Junction Internet partnered on the projects. Federal grants of $2.7 million, administered by the OBO, were matched by $2.7 million in contributions from The Junction Internet. Together, they will connect 337 homes and businesses using fixed wireless technology.
The Oklahoma Broadband Governing Board awarded the projects last year to improve service in Craig and Nowata counties.
Rural Broadband Powers Local Businesses
The project launch took place at Annabelle’s Fun Farm, a family-owned tourism destination near Welch featuring a pumpkin patch, petting zoo, corn mazes, and hayrides. The location highlights how vital broadband service has become for small rural businesses.
“We’d have to shut down without internet service,” said owner Bethany Wright.
OBO Executive Director Mike Sanders emphasized that the expansion will improve daily life across northeastern Oklahoma.
“This expansion is about giving opportunity to families, farmers, and small businesses in Craig and Nowata counties,” Sanders said. “High-speed internet brings education, healthcare, and economic growth within reach, ensuring our rural communities can thrive for generations to come. It empowers businesses like Annabelle’s Fun Farm to flourish and spark new economic activity—proof that when we connect rural Oklahoma, we unlock the full potential of our people and communities.”
Partnership Strengthens Rural Connectivity
Local legislators, tribal leaders, and municipal officials attended the event, showing broad support for the effort.
“These projects represent more than just broadband expansion—they’re about connecting families to educational opportunities, businesses to new markets, and communities to the wider world,” said The Junction Internet CEO Eric Sooter. “Having served northeastern Oklahoma since 1996 as one of the region’s first internet service providers, The Junction Internet understands that reliable high-speed internet isn’t a luxury in rural areas—it’s essential infrastructure that enables our communities to thrive and grow.”
Expanding Broadband Across the State
The Oklahoma Broadband Governing Board has awarded $525 million in grants statewide. With matching funds from internet service providers, total investment exceeds $840 million.
At least one project will be built in 59 of Oklahoma’s 77 counties. More than 180 projects are underway to connect over 69,000 homes and businesses.
With tens of thousands of locations slated for service, the OBO remains on pace to meet its mission of statewide broadband coverage.
Source: press release