360 Broadband secures $52 million grant to expand fiber internet access in Fannin County
By media release
Feb 13, 2025
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Leonard, Texas -- 360 Broadband proudly announces its award of $52,185,660 from the Texas Broadband Development Office's Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas (BOOT) II Program. This grant will fund a significant portion of a $65 million project to bring high-speed fiber internet to 4,355 locations in Fannin County, transforming connectivity for residents, businesses, and community institutions. In total, 360 Broadband will realize 12,000 locations in this buildout, with 4,355 funded by the grant and the remaining locations financed directly by 360 Broadband, showcasing its strong commitment to investing in local infrastructure.

The BOOT II Program, spearheaded by the Texas Comptroller’s office, aims to bridge the digital divide by funding projects that deliver reliable, high-speed broadband to underserved areas across Texas. By enhancing digital infrastructure, the program fosters economic growth, improves access to education and healthcare, and strengthens communities statewide.

"This funding marks a pivotal moment for Fannin County. Reliable, high-speed internet isn't just a convenience—it's necessary for education, business, healthcare, and overall quality of life. We're honored to lead this effort and are committed to delivering world-class fiber connectivity to the heart of Texas," said Kris McElroy, CEO of 360 Broadband.

Kris McElroy

"Our mission has always been to connect communities, and this BOOT II grant allows us to take that commitment even further. The impact will be immediate and long-lasting, providing residents and businesses with the tools to thrive in today’s digital world. We’re not just laying fiber; we’re laying the foundation for future innovation, economic development, and enhanced quality of life in Fannin County. This is more than a project—it’s an investment in the future of our community," commented Drew Beverage, COO of 360 Broadband.

This initiative will improve internet speeds and reliability and create local job opportunities during the construction and operational phases. Moreover, the BOOT II grant empowers private businesses like 360 Broadband to deliver critical infrastructure that would otherwise be financially unfeasible. By reducing the financial barriers to large-scale broadband deployment, this program ensures that even the most rural and underserved areas can benefit from cutting-edge connectivity solutions.

The project is expected to commence in early 2025, with completion projected by the end of 2026.