When it comes to solving connectivity challenges in rural communities, partnerships backed by expertise and the right resources make all the difference. Zayo played a pivotal role in addressing rural Arizona’s need for high-speed Internet by working closely with Sun Corridor Network (SCN) to activate over 60 miles of dormant fiber along Highway 60.
Collaborative Solutions Tailored for Rural Connectivity
For years, fiber-optic cables along Highway 60 offered immense potential for high-speed Internet. But without the right access points, rural communities in northwest Maricopa County were left disconnected. The Maricopa County Broadband Initiative (MCBI), a program focused on expanding reliable Internet access and bridging the digital divide, provided grant funding to improve access.
Zayo’s long-haul fiber became the foundation for unlocking this potential. By providing reliable infrastructure and flexible financing options, Zayo helped SCN maximize the grant funding it received through MCBI.
Zayo’s ability to design scalable, efficient solutions ensured that SCN’s funding stretched further, creating a sustainable model for rural broadband expansion.
Enabling High-Speed Access with Advanced Fiber Infrastructure
Beyond fiber access, Zayo offered our technical expertise and infrastructure through regeneration shelters located approximately every 50 miles along the Highway 60 corridor. These shelters, typically used to boost the fiber signal for long-distance travel, became the ideal “on-ramps” for local networks to tap into the high-speed connection.
Zayo’s team worked collaboratively with SCN, bypassing traditional methods by “interrupting the light” and installing custom electronics. This innovative approach created the infrastructure needed for local governments, schools, nonprofits, and ISPs to connect and better serve their communities.
Simplifying Connectivity with Expertise in Education and Funding
Zayo’s long-standing dedication to the education sector gave us a distinct advantage in this partnership. Backed by years of experience in navigating complex funding mechanisms like E-Rate and rural broadband grants, Zayo was able to streamline the entire process for SCN.
Zayo holds a state contract in Arizona, enabling cooperative purchasing that allowed SCN to bypass the lengthy RFP process. This ease of procurement saved valuable time and resources, allowing the project to move forward without delay. For educational institutions along Highway 60, this means faster access to high-quality broadband solutions that address specific needs like enhanced speed, security, and affordability.
Additionally, this fiber activation project aligns with Zayo’s ongoing commitment to closing the digital divide. By equipping schools and educational organizations with reliable connectivity, Zayo is helping break down barriers to technology access and providing new opportunities for students in underserved areas.
Building Partnerships for the Future
This project is another example of how Zayo brings tailored, high-impact solutions to meet regional broadband challenges. The successful collaboration with SCN and MCBI underscores Zayo’s ability to align robust infrastructure with local partnerships and funding opportunities. By empowering communities with sustainable connectivity solutions, Zayo is paving the way for a more connected future in Arizona and beyond.
Over 11% of Maricopa County’s population lives below the poverty line, emphasizing the importance of accessible, fast Internet access as a vital tool for education, job opportunities, and essential services. With Highway 60 now activated, an estimated $2.8 million in infrastructure upgrades will deliver high-speed Internet to thousands of residents and community institutions — with speeds projected to triple or quadruple compared to current options.
Zayo’s role in this initiative doesn’t end here. This success builds momentum for further expansions in nearby rural corridors, including Wittmann, Wickenburg, and major routes like I-17 and I-40. Institutions, governments, and communities looking to address the next broadband challenge can rest assured knowing Zayo is a trusted partner ready to deliver impactful solutions.
Championing Connectivity Through Collaboration
“We accomplish more when multiple partners bring their strengths to the table,” says Derek Masseth, Executive Director of SCN. This sentiment is brought to life in projects like Highway 60 activation, where Zayo’s infrastructure and expertise created a sustainable solution for rural connectivity. Together with SCN and MCBI, Zayo demonstrates how partnerships can drive meaningful change, ensuring that high-speed Internet reaches even the most underserved areas.
Whether you’re an educational institution, a nonprofit, or a government entity exploring broadband solutions, Zayo is an experienced and reliable partner. As Jason Taylor, Zayo’s VP of Sales for Public Sector, says, “Our investment in rural fiber is an investment in people. When we connect families, schools, and businesses to high-speed Internet, we open up corridors of innovation and prosperity that benefit everyone in the region.” Together, we can solve connectivity challenges with innovative, community-focused strategies that deliver long-term benefits.