The federal government has approved broadband projects on Guam that will bring consistent internet to 1,400 homes, provide high-speed service to 175 community institutions and bring satellite service to hard-to-reach areas.
The governor’s office said this is Guam’s most wide-ranging broadband build-out to date, with projects from GTA, IT&E and SpaceX.
A $500,000 cybersecurity monitoring project is also part of the approved plan.
Guam will award $1.8 million in federal Broadband Equity, Access & Deployment Program subgrants, supported by $3.1 million in matching funds to be contributed by participating providers, according to the governor's office.
“Every family, student, and worker on Guam deserves reliable, high-speed internet—no matter where they live or what their income may be. This investment is long overdue, and it signals that Guam’s needs are being heard at the national level. These projects strengthen our economy, improve public safety, and ensure our people can thrive in the digital age,” Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said in a news release.
GTA’s project will extend storm-resilient fiber to almost 1,400 homes that currently lack consistent connectivity. Construction will roll out in stages across multiple villages, with service becoming available as segments are completed.
IT&E will deliver gigabit-speed fiber to 175 community institutions, including schools, clinics, libraries, senior centers, and public safety facilities. Upgrades will provide faster, more dependable service for telehealth, distance learning, emergency response and other essential public functions.
SpaceX will provide Starlink service to areas where geography makes traditional infrastructure difficult. The satellite-based system allows for timely activation, offering homes in these few locations a more dependable connection for work, school, and communication.
While the federal broadband program allows up to four years for deployment, all providers intend to deliver their projects in shorter, phased stages to bring service online as early as possible.
The governor’s office said the federal approval reflects more than two years of work by the Broadband Office, which included detailed mapping to identify service gaps, village-level consultations, coordination with federal agencies and local governments, alignment with national broadband standards, and the development of broadband strategy plans.