Rural
USDA Nominee Glen Smith Vows Review of Rural Broadband Programs
During his nomination hearing, lawmakers pressed on coordinating USDA’s broadband programs and reviewing stalled energy projects.
Rural
Because Rural America is often the least-connected region in the country, ensuring coverage is central to BEAD.
SpaceX
Starlink Fallout Delays Ontario’s Universal Internet Target
Ontario delayed its broadband goal to 2028 amid U.S. trade tensions and construction setbacks.
Rural
Quintillion Completes Arctic Cable Burial, Restores Connectivity After 9 Months
Alaska ISP says all services have been fully restored to affected communities.
Rural
RiverStreet’s $20M Fiber Build in Bedford County, Va., Delayed Until 2026
Delays from a railroad-crossing permit and added projects have pushed the timeline back to June 2026.
Data Center
Rural Internet Access Critical for AI Competitiveness: Connected Nation
Rural America risks falling behind in the AI race without foundational infrastructure
AI
AI Infrastructure Boom Drives Need for Jump in U.S. Energy Production, Experts Say
AI's energy demands will require a 25% boost in U.S. electricity production over five years, experts warned.
USF
Rural Carriers: Operating Expense Support From Universal Service Necessary
The carriers say their legacy USF support has dwindled as the FCC phased out legacy programs in favor of competitive auctions.
Rural
At Last, Quintillion Completes Arctic Cable Repair
Alaska-based firm restores data traffic after subsea fiber line was cut in January.
Rural
Rural Co-op Executives Press Congress to Modernize Universal Service Fund
Witnesses pressure lawmakers to update funding model and prioritize affordability.
Rural
FCC’s Trusty Reports on Week-Long Visit to Alaska
Says FCC broadband programs spurring deployment.
FCC
FCC Denies Mercury’s RDOF Waiver Request
Provider now faces over $25M in penalties for defaults.
Expert Opinion
David Zumwalt: Rural America’s Wireless Revolution
In rural America, fixed wireless access powered by CBRS is delivering fiber-like speeds at a fraction of the cost—and connecting millions who would otherwise be left behind.
Rural
Ookla Finds Stark Differences in Tribal Broadband Performances
Tribal Nations continue to push for better connectivity.
Rural
Work Begins on $87M Michigan Middle Mile Project
Project will pass fiber through island relying on DSL.
Commerce
Rural Co-ops Back NTIA’s Overhaul of Environmental Review Rules
NRECA praises alignment with new law and Supreme Court ruling.
Funding
Senate Bill Would Terminate USDA’s Community Connect Grant Program
The program supports broadband expansion in rural areas where service does not exist.
