Infrastructure Planning Update
Middle-mile fiber optic infrastructure exists in these communities today. With upgrades to the electronics and implementation of a local fiber-to-the-premise (FTTx) network, the Group A communities would be served by high-speed fiber connectivity. Efforts are underway with the following grant awards:
- NTIA Tribal Broadband Connectivity Prog
Middle-mile fiber optic infrastructure exists in these communities today. With upgrades to the electronics and implementation of a local fiber-to-the-premise (FTTx) network, the Group A communities would be served by high-speed fiber connectivity. Efforts are underway with the following grant awards:
- NTIA Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP) Round 1: Planning and Engineering Award
- NTIA TBCP Round 2: Application in progress, awaiting approval
The SALMONet project ensures that each community will have local control over the new local access networks. GCI will lease the fiber from SALMONet for seven years, with the option to renew for three additional 3-year periods. During this time, GCI will operate and maintain the network, offering high-speed internet to consumers and businesses.
This agreement guarantees service levels and pricing similar to those available in Anchorage, with plans offering up to 2 GB of service. Additionally, each community's tribal office will receive 25 Mbps Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) at no recurring cost.
The project supports local workforce development by providing training, including hands-on site work with experienced professionals and in-class and/or virtual training and curriculum. SALMONet also commits to hiring local site agents and using local companies for construction.
Workforce Development Update
The Bristol Bay Native Association (BBNA) is applying for an NITA Digital Equity Competitive to fund the Bristol Bay Tribal Digital Inclusion Project, an initiative designed to bridge the digital divide for the 31 federally recognized tribes in Southwest Alaska. This $8.4 million project focuses on workforce development, digital equity, a
The Bristol Bay Native Association (BBNA) is applying for an NITA Digital Equity Competitive to fund the Bristol Bay Tribal Digital Inclusion Project, an initiative designed to bridge the digital divide for the 31 federally recognized tribes in Southwest Alaska. This $8.4 million project focuses on workforce development, digital equity, and cybersecurity, ensuring that local communities can participate fully in the digital economy. It will establish tribal libraries equipped with rentable computers, provide digital literacy training, and upgrade cybersecurity systems, enabling residents to access remote work, education, and healthcare opportunities.
As part of a broader effort, the project complements the Bristol Bay Broadband Implementation Plan for Virtual Jobs Adoption, which outlines strategies to build local broadband infrastructure and create jobs through remote work. By addressing significant barriers to internet access, this initiative will help residents of Bristol Bay, 75% of whom are Alaska Native, to connect with digital resources and enhance economic opportunities.
Learn more about the Bristol Bay Broadband Implementation Plan and its impact here.