The program is a strategic effort to bridge the digital divide and stimulate economic development across Ohio. Through the latest round of funding, the state received 67 applications requesting support for various broadband infrastructure improvements. These include the replacement of over 1,300 utility poles and the underground installation of more than 3,600 cable lines—both critical for expanding internet networks in rural and remote areas.
One provider submitted six applications totaling over $18.5 million in funding requests, targeting counties such as Belmont and Delaware. Several other local providers also applied, aiming to upgrade internet delivery systems and ensure smoother, faster digital access for residents and businesses.
The Broadband Pole Replacement and Undergrounding Program was established under House Bill 33 passed by the 135th General Assembly. The initiative began on July 1, 2023, and will continue until the full $50 million budget is utilized or until June 1, 2029. Its main objective is to reduce the cost burden on service providers deploying internet in regions where commercial viability is limited due to high infrastructure expenses.
State leaders have emphasized the role of broadband connectivity in the state’s broader growth and digital inclusion strategies. The governor noted that access to affordable, reliable internet is no longer optional but essential for modern life. From education and healthcare to employment and communication, digital connectivity impacts nearly every aspect of daily life. Supporting infrastructure development, the governor said, opens new opportunities for communities to flourish.
The lieutenant governor highlighted the economic importance of connectivity, citing Ohio’s current job growth and industrial expansion. Ensuring every corner of the state has the necessary digital tools, he said, is critical to preparing the workforce and supporting new business ventures.
Officials overseeing economic development pointed out that while advanced internet services are expected in urban centers, rural areas face significant challenges. Programs like this address those disparities directly, creating a more equitable digital landscape. “Reliable internet starts with reliable infrastructure,” a senior official explained. “By eliminating the high costs that typically stall rural progress, we’re empowering communities to thrive in a digital economy.”
The funding cycle is part of a multi-phase approach to enhance statewide internet accessibility. Previous rounds of the program have already laid the groundwork in several counties, and the current allocation represents the most extensive outreach to date. With the continued support of state agencies and cooperation from broadband providers, Ohio is making steady progress toward a future where every resident, regardless of ZIP code, has access to fast, affordable internet.
The expansion is expected to improve online education access, enable better telehealth services, support small business operations, and enhance overall quality of life in rural Ohio. As digital transformation accelerates nationwide, Ohio’s initiative reflects a proactive approach to ensuring no community is left behind in the race toward connectivity.
