Hoonah Indian Association and Alaska Communications to Provide Gigabit Internet Service in Hoonah and Gustavus

Rhea-AI Summary

Nearly 1,250 residents in Hoonah and Gustavus, Alaska, may soon gain access to high-speed internet via fiber optic connections, pending NTIA grant approval. The Hoonah Indian Association and Alaska Communications plan to create a subsea cable network, enhancing remote work, distance learning, and telehealth options. Additionally, a community technology center will support education and access to services. Grant applications were submitted on Sept. 1, with NTIA expected to award funds by the end of 2021, and project completion anticipated by December 2023.

Positive

• Potential to connect nearly 1,250 residents with high-speed internet.
• Opportunity for enhanced remote work, distance learning, and telehealth.
• Creation of a community technology center to support broadband education and access.
• Expected completion of the project by December 2023 if grant is awarded.

Negative

• None.

HOONAH, Alaska--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Nearly 1,250 Alaskans in Hoonah and Gustavus, two isolated communities in Southeast Alaska, will receive fiber optic cable-based high-speed internet for the first time, if the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) approves a request for a tribal broadband grant.

Hoonah Indian Association and Alaska Communications, together, would connect the region with a subsea fiber optic cable, with fiber to the home in the communities of Hoonah and Gustavus. Alaska Communications would offer Gigabit service in communities that today cannot stream classes, work remotely or access quality telehealth care.

Hoonah Indian Association and Alaska Communications would also provide a community technology center in Hoonah and Gustavus to facilitate broadband education, awareness, training, access, equipment and provide support for community members. The technology center would offer basic skills training, access to social and medical services, and support community cultural activities.

“Bridging the digital divide will bring significant economic and cultural opportunities to our region. The fiber optic network would finally bring reliable, affordable, and high-speed internet so desperately needed to connect our youth with Elders, offer training opportunities, remote work opportunities and distance learning and healthcare. It will transform our region,” said Robert Starbard, Tribal Administrator, Hoonah Indian Association.

“We thank the Hoonah Indian Association and NTIA for this opportunity to continue connecting and serving our fellow Alaskans. This fiber optic network would positively change lives and spur economic growth in the region. We are proud to be part of this important project,” said Bill Bishop, president and CEO, Alaska Communications.

Once constructed, the Hoonah and Gustavus fiber optic network would connect to the Alaska Communications core fiber network.

Grant applications were submitted to the NTIA Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program Sept. 1. NTIA expects to award grants by the end of 2021. If awarded, the project would be complete in December 2023.

Hoonah Indian Association

Hoonah Indian Association, headquartered in Hoonah Alaska is the federally recognized tribal government of the Xunaa Tlingit.

Alaska Communications

Alaska Communications, an affiliate of ATN International, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATNI), is the leading provider of advanced broadband and managed IT services for businesses and consumers in Alaska. The company operates a highly reliable, advanced statewide data network with the latest technology and the most diverse undersea fiber optic system connecting Alaska to the contiguous U.S. For more information, visit www.AlaskaCommunications.com or www.alsk.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909006026/en/

Robert Starbard, Hoonah Indian Association

907-723-7791

Heather Cavanaugh, Alaska Communications

907-564-7722

Source: Alaska Communications

FAQ

What is the purpose of the broadband project in Hoonah and Gustavus, Alaska?

The project aims to provide high-speed internet access to nearly 1,250 residents through a fiber optic network.

Who is involved in the broadband project in Alaska?

The Hoonah Indian Association and Alaska Communications are collaborating on this fiber optic project.

What are the expected benefits of the broadband project for local residents?

The project seeks to enhance remote work, distance learning, and access to telehealth services.

When were the grant applications for the broadband project submitted?

Grant applications were submitted to the NTIA on September 1.

When is the fiber optic broadband project expected to be completed?

If awarded, the project is anticipated to be complete by December 2023.

What is the significance of the community technology center in this project?

The technology center will provide education, training, and support for broadband access and community services.