Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The City of Brownsville’s Information Technology Department has been awarded nearly $22 million in grant funding through the Texas Middle Mile Program to support a major expansion of its Broadband Fiber Project.
The department received a total of $21,987,391.21, marking a significant investment in the region’s digital infrastructure. The grant funds substantially offset overall project costs and reflect strong external support for Brownsville’s long-term connectivity strategy.
“With this investment, Brownsville is continuing to build the foundation for a more connected and competitive future,”
Mayor John Cowen Jr., City of Brownsville.
The Texas Middle Mile Program is designed for municipalities with established fiber networks that are ready to expand regional connectivity. Brownsville’s existing infrastructure and forward-looking vision positioned the City as a competitive candidate for this award.
“With this investment, Brownsville is continuing to build the foundation for a more connected and competitive future,” said Mayor John Cowen Jr., City of Brownsville. “Expanding our broadband infrastructure means more opportunity for our residents, stronger support for education and healthcare, and better tools to help our region grow together.”
With this funding, the City will expand its fiber network by approximately 131 miles, improving broadband access, reliability, and capacity throughout the region. The project will also enable neighboring communities to connect to Brownsville’s middle-mile network, creating a more resilient and scalable communications backbone.
“This award reflects years of planning and investment in the City’s digital infrastructure,” said Alan Guard, ICMA-CM, CGFO, Brownsville Interim City Manager. “By expanding our middle-mile network, we are not only increasing capacity and reliability but also creating the framework for greater regional connectivity and long-term technological growth.”
Communities that will directly benefit from the expansion include Starbase, San Pedro, Encantada-Ranchito El Calaboz, La Paloma, Palmer Colonia, Carricitos, Los Indios, Rangerville, San Benito, Russell Town, Green Valley Farms, Villa Del Sol, Lozano, Rio Hondo, Arroyo Gardens, La Tina Ranch, Laureles, Bayview, Laguna Vista, Laguna Heights, and Port Isabel.
The project is expected to impact approximately 50,000 residents, enhancing access to high-speed broadband for households, businesses, healthcare providers, and educational institutions.
The initiative also received strong support from regional leaders, including Texas Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa and U.S. Congressman Vicente Gonzalez, who provided letters of endorsement highlighting the project’s regional importance.
Information source: The City of Brownsville
