YUMA COUNTY—The November 12 AgTech tower dedication represents one milestone in Yuma County’s ongoing leadership on broadband access across the region, as two transformational broadband projects approach completion. The County’s 170-mile Middle Mile Fiber Network and its state-of-the-art wireless mesh broadband system for agriculture are setting new standards in connectivity, technology and regional leadership.

The Middle Mile and mesh broadband projects reflect years of planning and strategic investment by the Yuma County Board of Supervisors. These efforts are positioning Yuma County as a leader in high-speed broadband expansion and advanced agricultural innovation, drawing interest from across the state, the nation and the world.

The dedication of the first of 34 AgTech towers was made possible through a $6 million ARPA grant secured through the Governor’s Office by the County and championed by the Board of Supervisors. That event marked the formal launch of the nation’s first wireless network dedicated entirely to agriculture.

Building the Backbone for the Future

The Middle Mile Fiber Network is a countywide infrastructure project that strengthens internet access for residents, businesses and community institutions. Nearly 170 miles of new underground fiber are being installed to form a resilient and scalable backbone that will support both present and future digital needs.

The network consists of looped pathways for redundancy and reliability, and includes empty conduit for future growth that allows providers to expand service. This strategic design prepares Yuma County for new technologies and rising demand.

Chairman Martin Porchas said the County’s leadership recognized that decisive action was needed.

“The pandemic made it clear that fast and reliable broadband was not optional for Yuma County. It was essential for families, for health care, for education and for business,” Porchas said. “We knew we had to take action and we were determined to get this done for the people we serve.”

Pioneering Smart Agriculture Through Wireless Innovation

The second major project, a wireless mesh broadband network dedicated to agriculture, builds on the Middle Mile investment. This network is scheduled to include 34 tower sites across Yuma County’s irrigation districts. When complete, it will allow growers to use smart farming tools such as drones, precision irrigation, autonomous equipment and real-time data systems.

These technologies help increase production, support water conservation, improve safety and strengthen long-term sustainability for one of the nation’s most important agricultural regions. They also open the door for significant economic development.

Vice Chairman Jonathan Lines said the County identified a unique opportunity to become a global leader.

“Yuma County worked closely with the ag community and the governor’s office not only to meet the needs of twenty-first century agriculture, but also to look ahead at how we can lead the nation and the world,” Lines said. “Reliable production here is vital to our country’s food security and, by extension, our national security. These broadband investments support our growers who keep America’s food supply strong.”

Strong Local Leadership and Strategic Investment

The Board of Supervisors acted early by committing $20 million of the County’s American Rescue Plan Act funds to launch the Middle Mile project. This step attracted major state support, including a $10 million Arizona Commerce Authority grant to expand the fiber network.

The wireless mesh project received $5 million from the office of Governor Doug Ducey, which was later expanded to $6 million by Governor Katie Hobbs.

Although the County initially pursued cost-sharing opportunities with other entities, Yuma County moved forward independently because the need was clear and immediate. There was no increase in taxes and no financial assistance from local cities. Yuma County acted alone to meet the needs of its residents and its agricultural community.

Vice Chairman Lines said the Board’s early initiative set the stage for success.

“This work is possible because Yuma County invested in the Middle Mile. That foundation allowed major projects like the ag mesh system to move forward. These projects are unique in design and scale, and will fuel long-term economic growth for our community.”+

Recognition and Global Interest

Even before the networks are complete, Yuma County is receiving inquiries from around the state, across the nation and from international partners who want to learn from and partner with the County. The unique strategy connects public investment with economic development, community needs and long-term technological growth.

Both projects are moving quickly. Phase 1 of the Middle Mile is complete. Phase 2 is nearing completion. Phase 3 will soon extend coverage into additional agricultural areas. Construction of the wireless mesh towers is expected to be completed in 2026.

A New Era for Yuma County

With this work, Yuma County is entering a new era of innovation, connectivity and opportunity. Residents will have better access to fast and affordable internet. Businesses and schools will benefit from greater reliability and capacity. Agriculture will gain cutting-edge tools that help secure the region’s economic future.

Chairman Porchas said, “Yuma County’s leadership took action, made strategic investments and delivered projects that will shape the region for decades.”

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