What's Happening?
Ethos Broadband, in collaboration with New Mexico's Office of Broadband Access and Expansion, has completed a fixed wireless access deployment in Chimayo, a rural community in Rio Arriba County. This project, funded by a $1.3 million Student Connect grant
awarded in February 2025, provides broadband connectivity to 173 student households in the Española Public School district at no cost for three years. Ethos Broadband, a division of Sacred Wind Enterprises, was acquired by Commnet Broadband, a subsidiary of ATN International, in 2022. The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in rural areas, ensuring students have access to necessary online resources.
Why It's Important?
The deployment of free broadband in rural areas like Chimayo is crucial for educational equity, especially in underserved communities. By providing free internet access, the initiative supports students' ability to participate in digital learning, which has become increasingly important. This project also highlights the role of public-private partnerships in addressing infrastructure gaps. The success of such initiatives can serve as a model for other rural areas facing similar challenges, potentially influencing future broadband policies and funding allocations.
What's Next?
Following the successful deployment in Chimayo, similar projects may be initiated in other rural communities across New Mexico and beyond. Stakeholders, including local governments and educational institutions, might explore additional funding opportunities to expand broadband access. The impact of this project will likely be monitored to assess improvements in educational outcomes and digital literacy among students, which could inform future broadband expansion strategies.
