To Address Internet Disparities, Tohono O’odham Nation Constructs Independent Network
A renewed effort is underway to bring reliable high-speed internet to an area in Arizona that has lacked such access in the past. Leveraging federal CARES Act funds, the Tohono O’odham Nation has developed its own private cellular network.
Tony Eigen, Baicells Vice President of Global Marketing, emphasized the network’s mission: “The goal is really to blanket the entire reservation with coverage.” The private network consists of approximately 50 base stations, capable of delivering 4G LTE service to around 3,000 households, as detailed by Baicells, the equipment distributor.
This initiative enables a range of services, including video streaming, video calls, and access to various content, addressing critical communication needs within the community. According to Kristan Johnson, Tohono O’odham Utility Authority Operations Manager, this private network aligns well with existing utility infrastructure practices.
“In today’s age, internet access is just another utility,” Johnson stated in a press release, noting the nation’s experience with managing utilities like electricity and water.
By creating a private network, the Tohono O’odham Nation also gains control over the service’s administration. Beyond residential connectivity, the nation has broader plans for the network’s potential community benefits.
Eigen elaborated, “They’re very much looking at how else the network can serve the community.”
The introduction of high-speed internet promises manifold improvements in areas such as emergency services, telehealth, remote learning, and business opportunities. The network’s flexibility to adapt to evolving demands positions it for potential upgrades, including transitioning to 5G service.
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Chronicle Hub journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.