Assistant Secretary Arielle Roth Visits Chickasaw Nation, Announces Extension for NTIA’s Tribal Broadband Programs

Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and National Telecommunications and Information Administrator Arielle Roth joined Chairman Tom Cole in the Chickasaw Nation near Ada, Oklahoma, to see firsthand how the Nation is using a range of broadband technologies and NTIA funding to connect its communities. During her visit, Assistant Secretary Roth toured a fixed wireless tower that delivers high-speed internet to Tribal residents, learned about the drilling equipment used to deploy fiber, and discussed how the Chickasaw Nation is incorporating satellite connectivity, including through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program. Roth also announced that NTIA will extend the application deadline for the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program and Native Entities Grant Program by 60 days, from September 17 to November 17.