Bastrop County, Texas, November 27, 2025
Bastrop County, Texas, has received a $43 million grant to expand high-speed fiber internet access to over 10,000 homes and businesses. This initiative, part of the BOOT II program, aims to bridge the digital divide and improve connectivity throughout the region. Construction is already underway, and the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, providing residents with affordable broadband options for telehealth, education, and business growth.
Bastrop County Secures $43 Million Broadband Grant
Bastrop County, Texas has been awarded a $43 million grant from the Texas Broadband Development Office to expand high-speed fiber internet access to over 10,000 previously unserved homes and businesses. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and enhance connectivity across the county.
Grant Details and Implementation
The grant, part of the Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas (BOOT II) program, will fund the deployment of fiber-to-the-home services by Highline, a leading fiber broadband provider. Construction is already underway, with the project expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Upon completion, residents and businesses will benefit from enhanced broadband options at affordable rates, unlocking opportunities in telehealth, remote learning, small business growth, and civic engagement.
Community and Economic Impact
This significant investment underscores Bastrop County’s commitment to closing the digital divide. Access to reliable, high-speed internet is vital for education, healthcare, business, and community well-being. The county credits a collaboration between various departments, groups, and nonprofits for this achievement. The Bastrop County Broadband Taskforce conducted a survey with approximately 4,700 responses, revealing larger coverage gaps than previously identified, and targeted efforts to address these disparities.
Background Context
Bastrop County, located southeast of Austin, has historically faced challenges with internet access due to its rural landscape. The digital divide has limited opportunities in education, telehealth, and economic growth for many residents. In response, local leaders and organizations have prioritized broadband expansion, leading to this substantial grant and the ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity across the region.
Related Developments
In addition to the broadband grant, Bastrop County has attracted significant investments in technology and infrastructure. Notably, SpaceX received a $17 million grant to expand its semiconductor research and development facility in Bastrop, expected to create over 400 jobs and more than $280 million in capital investment. This expansion will produce Starlink kits and advanced packaged silicon products, further contributing to the region’s technological growth.
Key Features of the Broadband Expansion in Bastrop County
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | $43 million |
| Number of Locations Served | Over 10,000 homes and businesses |
| Service Provider | Highline |
| Project Completion Date | End of 2026 |
| Community Benefits | Enhanced broadband access, opportunities in telehealth, remote learning, small business growth, and civic engagement |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the $43 million grant awarded to Bastrop County?
The grant aims to expand high-speed fiber internet access to over 10,000 previously unserved homes and businesses in Bastrop County, bridging the digital divide and enhancing connectivity.
Who is responsible for deploying the fiber internet services in Bastrop County?
Highline, a leading fiber broadband provider, is responsible for deploying the fiber-to-the-home services funded by the grant.
When is the fiber internet project expected to be completed?
The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, providing residents and businesses with enhanced broadband options at affordable rates.
How will the broadband expansion impact the community?
The expansion will unlock opportunities in telehealth, remote learning, small business growth, and civic engagement, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.
What other significant investments have been made in Bastrop County?
In addition to the broadband grant, SpaceX received a $17 million grant to expand its semiconductor research and development facility in Bastrop, expected to create over 400 jobs and more than $280 million in capital investment.
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