eX² Technology Partners with Arizona Officials and Cox to Enhance Broadband Access Across the State

eX² Technology Partners with Arizona Officials for Broadband Expansion

In a significant move to enhance broadband connectivity, eX² Technology, a subsidiary of Vivacity, has formalized an agreement with Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) to lease un-utilized fiber along the I-17 corridor to Cox Communications. This 20-year agreement marks a pivotal step in Arizona's initiative to provide high-speed internet access to underserved rural communities.

The leased fiber, spanning 141 miles, will support the ongoing Schools and Libraries Program (E-rate), a project dedicated to connecting educational institutions along the I-17 highway. Governor Katie Hobbs expressed the importance of this agreement in promoting reliable internet access as a means of bridging the digital divide in the state.

"We are delivering broadband to people across Arizona, connecting them to critical economic and educational opportunities and helping them realize the Arizona Promise," stated Governor Hobbs during the announcement.

This partnership continues to build on the momentum from eX² Technology's previous agreement with Wecom Fiber earlier this year, which focused on dark fiber commercialization. The current expansion is part of a larger strategy that includes dark fiber and conduit assets throughout Arizona's highways, which are essential for paving the way for improved broadband infrastructure.

Beyond the I-17 corridor, ADOT's network includes dark fiber resources along the I-19 route from Tucson to Nogales and a developing 202-mile construction initiative along I-40W expected to conclude by the end of 2026. This network is a key component of the open-access middle-mile project funded by over $140 million in federal state-directed funding aimed at expanding broadband access to unserved and underserved areas.

Kyle Hildebrand, Chief Revenue Officer at eX² Technology, stated, "Arizona is setting a national example for how strategic investment and collaboration can transform digital infrastructure." He underscored the agreement as a significant leap toward delivering high-speed connectivity to communities needing it most and as a collaborative effort to address the challenges of the digital divide.

Cox Communications, recognized as a trusted high-speed internet provider, is set to expand its network particularly to Black Canyon City, incorporating 1,700 residences, a school, a library, a post office, and several local businesses. This initiative not only fosters economic growth and innovation within these communities but also empowers residents and public institutions with reliable internet access.

Susan Anable, Vice President of the Phoenix Market at Cox Communications, emphasized, "We are proud to support the State of Arizona's initiative to expand broadband in rural areas by bringing high-speed connectivity and digital opportunity. This opens the door to future commercial and educational opportunities that strengthen local economies and community vitality."

Jennifer Toth, director of ADOT, complemented this initiative by noting the critical importance of middle-mile connectivity in extending internet availability in underserved communities. Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, echoed similar sentiments, thanking the involved parties for their dedicated efforts in advancing this essential work.

In 2024, eX² Technology was awarded a long-term agreement that includes the management, operation, and commercialization of ADOT's conduit, dark fiber, and wireless infrastructure along major routes, including I-17, I-19, I-40W, and future developments along I-10 and I-8. This comprehensive strategy is geared towards ensuring all Arizonans receive equal access to broadband connectivity as part of the statewide ConnectAllAZ initiative.

As connectivity becomes increasingly fundamental to education and economic growth, this agreement signifies not just a commitment to infrastructure development but also a promise of opportunities for numerous communities across Arizona. The collaboration is a model for other states seeking to improve broadband access, demonstrating the impact of partnership and investment in the digital landscape.

For more information on the dark fiber available through ADOT, visit ex2technology.com/adot. To learn more about ongoing broadband efforts by ADOT, refer to azdot.gov/broadband.