Milestone in Broadband Expansion with Final BEAD Funding Approval

The latest program approval totals $629,172,951.83 to support twenty-nine projects led by fifteen internet providers. Two of the state’s primary telecommunications providers, Alaska Communications and GCI, are continuing their own massive infrastructure projects under this funding umbrella.

With a grant of more than $124 million, Alaska Communications will deploy fiber and next-generation fixed wireless broadband infrastructure to serve more than 9,000 unserved and underserved locations. Additionally, the company will invest its own capital to extend access to another 12,000 locations.

“We’re proud to help bring fast, dependable broadband to more homes and businesses in Alaska,” says Alaska Communications President and CEO Paul Fenaroli. “This investment will make a real difference for families, students, healthcare providers, and entrepreneurs who rely on strong connectivity to thrive.”

GCI has been approved for $121.2 million for three major projects. Most of the BEAD funding goes toward completing the AIRRAQ Network, a partnership between GCI and Bethel Native Corporation, bringing gigabit broadband and urban pricing to sixteen communities in Western Alaska.

“The NTIA’s approval of Alaska’s BEAD Final Proposal is a major milestone,” says Billy Wailand, GCI senior vice president of corporate development, “the culmination of a years-long effort by NTIA, the state, and telecommunications providers.”

The AIRRAQ Network celebrated activation of its first phase in five communities this winter, reaching 11,800 residents in Western Alaska. Further broadband service is planned in Chefornak, Goodnews Bay, Kipnuk, Kongiganak, Kwigillingok, Marshall, Mekoryuk, Mertarvik, Mountain Village, Nightmute, Pilot Station, Pitkas Point, Russian Mission, St. Mary’s, Togiak, and Twin Hills. Plans also call for new urban infrastructure, with fiber buildouts in Anchorage and Eagle River, including Ship Creek, Bear Valley, Rabbit Creek, and the South Fork of Eagle River.

Areas targeted for broadband installations by Alaska Communications include Anchorage, Akhiok, Anchor Point, Bird Creek, Delta Junction, Fairbanks, Homer, Hope, Indian, Kasilof, Kenai, Kodiak, Manley Hot Springs, Minto, Old Harbor, Salcha, Soldotna, Sterling, and Womens Bay.

The first locations are expected to receive service as soon as June. By the end of the third year of deployment, approximately 70 percent of the locations slated to be served under BEAD funding will be connected.

The state’s approach has focused on the “Benefit of the Bargain” program restructuring to optimize technology and savings. “By connecting our most remote communities,” says Commissioner Julie Sande of the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, “we are unlocking entrepreneurship, strengthening local economies, and ensuring Alaskans in rural communities can participate in the growth we are seeing statewide.”

Having received approval by the NTIA, the awards now advance to the National Institute of Standards and Technology for final review. Alaska Communications is working closely with local communities on construction planning.

Of GCI’s efforts, Wailand adds, “Together, we’re delivering a network shaped by community priorities and creating real, lasting opportunity across the region.”