Rural wifi funding passes US House

Funding to expand the wifi network at the Curry County Fairgrounds has passed the U.S. House of Representatives.

Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez, D-N.M., secured the approval of the U.S. House for a $250,000 appropriation last week to fund the design, purchase, and installation of an expanded WiFi network at the Curry County Fairgrounds.

This is part of a group of more than $74 million in community project funding requests in appropriations legislation made by the congresswoman, according to a press release from her office.

The funding was part of a package of seven appropriations bills for 2022, and passed on a 219-208 vote last week. The bill moves on to the Senate.

“The fairground is an important place that makes Curry County special. This project will allow the fairgrounds and event center to blossom financially, allowing them to book more events and livestream them to reach people all across New Mexico,” said Leger Fernández. “Expanding broadband access means expanding access to education, work opportunities, and further economic development opportunities for the surrounding areas. I’m proud to have secured funding for this needed project and passed it out of the House. I look forward to the Senate reaffirming their commitment to community as reflected in our appropriations bills.”

Curry County Manager Lance Pyle said these internet services would make it possible for the fairgrounds to livestream events such as graduations, rodeos and livestock shows.

“Also during the COVID pandemic, we had a hotspot in this area for students and this would enhance that,” Pyle said. “Anyone in the community could access that without significantly slowing down the system.

“We are very appreciative of Congresswoman Leger Fernandez and her staff for working hard for us and we are very optimistic that we will receive the funding.”

According to the release, the project would encourage growth in the region and give those living nearby better access to online resources.

“The Congresswoman has been advocating in the Senate and she is hopeful these appropriations will pass the Senate,” said Maria Hurtado, communications director for Leger Fernandez.