The Washington State Broadband Office has finalized agreements with seven companies to expand internet access to unserved and underserved communities across the state, according to an announcement Thursday.
The contracts represent $165 million in combined federal, state and private funding. The seven awardees are Broadlinc, Concept Communications, Declaration Networks Groups, Hood Canal Communications, Kitsap PUD, Lummi Indian Business Council, and Spokane Indian Tribe.
Before construction begins, all projects must complete reviews under the National Environmental Protection Act and the National Historic Preservation Act. Once those reviews and other permitting activities are approved, construction crews will extend fiber and other broadband infrastructure to locations currently lacking reliable high-speed internet.
Washington State Broadband Office Director Jordan Arnold said broadband has become essential infrastructure. "It's how kids do homework, how small businesses stay open and how families reach a doctor without driving an hour," Arnold said.
These seven agreements are the first wave of subgrantee contracts under Washington's Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, a federal initiative. Construction timelines vary by project, with most locations expected to be connected within four years of contract execution, though many households may connect sooner. Additional contracts are expected as the state continues its rollout.