Author: Jack Hughes

The Oglala Sioux Tribe has been awarded a $19,620,766 grant from the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP) to significantly improve internet access across the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. This funding will facilitate the construction of a last-mile broadband network, directly connecting 1,821 unserved Native American households with fixed wireless service offering speeds up to 50 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload.

The proposed project will include the following:

• Deploy 15 RAN (Radio Access Network) sites, including a base station and ancillary equipment. 
• Construct eight new tower sites using above-ground foundations and two guyed towers constructed with guy wires to provide stability in high wind situations. 
• Deploy 10 microwave links to provide backhaul connectivity to RAN sites, including two microwave repeater sites.
• Deploy 41km (approximately 26 miles) of fiber between Pine Ridge, South Dakota and Rushville, Nebraska. 
• Deploy 149km (approximately 93 miles) of fiber connecting seven RAN sites. 

The TBCP, administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), is a nearly $3 billion initiative aimed at expanding high-speed internet access in tribal communities. Funded through the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the program supports broadband deployment, digital inclusion, workforce development, telehealth, and distance learning.

This grant is part of the first round of awards, which have collectively provided over $457 million to 60 tribal entities. The Oglala Sioux Tribe’s project is poised to bridge the digital divide on the Pine Ridge Reservation, enabling residents to engage in remote education, telemedicine, remote work, and other online activities essential in today’s digital economy.

Oglala Lakota Telecommunication is responsible for the implementation and deployment of all broadband services on the lands of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. The Oglala Sioux Tribe’s Information Technology Division will oversee the implementation of this project, ensuring that the infrastructure meets the community’s needs and aligns with the Tribe’s commitment to digital sovereignty.

This development marks a significant step toward closing the connectivity gap in tribal lands, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for the Oglala Sioux Tribe’s members.

Resources:

• Biden-Harris Administration Awards Nearly $119 Million in “Internet for All” Grants to Expand High-Speed Internet Access on Tribal Lands in Five States
• Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program Round One Award Recipients

Oglala Sioux Tribe Awarded $35 Million USDA Grant to Enhance High-Speed Internet Access

Oglala Sioux Tribe (OST) is proud to announce the receipt of a $35 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) ReConnect Program. This significant investment is set to transform the digital landscape of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, delivering high-speed internet to approximately 3,300 residents, 47 businesses, 55 farms, and seven educational facilities across Bennett and Oglala Lakota counties.

The ReConnect Program is a USDA initiative dedicated to bridging the digital divide in rural America. By providing funding for the construction, improvement, or acquisition of facilities and equipment, the program aims to deliver high-speed internet to the most remote and underserved communities. This connectivity is crucial for fostering economic growth, enhancing educational opportunities, and improving access to healthcare services in rural areas.

Oglala Lakota Telecommunications (OLT), who is wholly owned by the OST, is committed to providing broadband services to the Oglala Sioux Tribe through 2.5 GHz licensed fixed wireless and fiber optic networking. This project aligns with OLT’s mission to ensure that all residents on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation have access to quality and affordable connectivity.

The infusion of funds will facilitate the deployment of a fiber-to-the-premises network, significantly enhancing internet speeds and reliability for the community. This advancement is expected to create new job opportunities, support local businesses, and provide students with the digital tools necessary for academic success.

USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized the broader impact of such investments, stating, “When we invest in modern infrastructure for people who live in Tribal communities, we create a ripple effect that impacts everyone.”

OLT will implement, deploy, and support the OST USDA ReConnect awarded broadband fiber optic network to the home.

OLT extends its gratitude to the USDA and all stakeholders involved in securing this grant. The organization looks forward to the positive changes this project will bring to the Oglala Sioux Tribe and reaffirms its dedication to empowering the community through improved connectivity.

Resources:

• Biden-Harris Administration Bringing High-Speed Internet, Clean Drinking Water and Modern Infrastructure to Tribal Communities