A Philomath-based business and a partnering organization have secured a major federal grant that will bring high-speed internet to hundreds of rural locations currently lacking reliable broadband access.
Internet service provider Alyrica Networks and Rural Prosperity Partners announced Tuesday that their joint proposal has been selected as a preliminary awardee under the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. The project will serve the Central Linn School District and surrounding rural communities.
The partnership will receive $5.3 million in federal grant funding as part of a $7.2 million total project cost. The initiative aims to connect 680 locations across the district using a hybrid approach that combines fiber optic cables with fixed wireless technology.
“Rural Prosperity Partners is committed to supporting thriving rural communities—and access to fast, affordable broadband is at the heart of our work,” said Rachael Maddock-Hughes, Rural Prosperity Partners chief executive officer.
The BEAD program specifically targets unserved and underserved locations, particularly in rural and high-cost areas where traditional internet infrastructure has been economically challenging to deploy.
For Central Linn’s rural communities, which includes Brownsville, Halsey, Shedd and Peoria, the project addresses longstanding digital divide issues that have affected students’ educational opportunities and limited economic development. The hybrid fiber and fixed wireless approach was designed to navigate the area’s challenging terrain while ensuring reliable connectivity.
The preliminary award status means the project must still complete final approvals and planning phases before construction begins.
— — —
Submit your business news: The Philomath News accepts press releases from local businesses. Submissions might include grand openings or business relocations, staff promotions, hires or retirements, awards and recognitions, expansion plans or new services, celebrating a milestone, etc. Include relevant details, dates and high-resolution photos, when possible. Email to: news@philomathnews.com.