The plan, however, is contingent upon the telecommunication firm’s application for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 Broadband Initiative funds.
Reyes, R-Saipan, said IT&E’s application should be given consideration because it will help increase Internet and broadband adoption on the islands.
“The impact of these services will help create opportunities in the areas of education, public service and economic development,” the Senate president said in a letter addressed to the IT&E management.
“This initiative will provide needed Internet access to traditionally disadvantaged communities along with government agencies, which support communities,” he added.
IT&E is the largest telecommunication company in the Northern Marianas.
Under ARRA or the stimulus law, $4.7 billion in grants are allocated for the improvement of broadband services in undeveloped communities around the nation.
Of the amount, $2.5 billion is earmarked to facilitate broadband deployment in rural communities.
