The project, announced Friday, is part of a public-private partnership between the Oklahoma Broadband Office (OBO) and the Internet service provider, funded with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds encumbered last year, according to a news release. AT&T will provide at least 25 percent in matching funds.
“Today’s launch marks more than the rollout of fiber — it’s the foundation of opportunity, growth and connection for every corner of Oklahoma,” OBO Executive Director Mike Sanders said in a statement.
The Latimer County project is worth $2.4 million and will connect 455 homes and businesses to high-speed Internet. AT&T’s other four projects are in Alfalfa, Bryan, Marshall and Wagoner counties. According to AT&T Connects, the company invested nearly $1.5 billion in its Oklahoma network infrastructure between 2019 and 2023. This includes expanding its fiber network in Lawton and Jenks, and adding cell towers across the state.
OBO has at least one connectivity project planned in 57 of its 77 counties, and has announced funding for at least 180 projects. According to its 2024 annual report, the office awarded more than $500 million in connectivity grants last year. Those grants came from ARPA’s State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds and its Capital Projects Fund.
