Laredo, Texas—U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced the completion of Las Lomas, Las Penitas, Los Botines, Simeon Park and Hachar Business Park broadband connectivity projects. The projects were completed with the support of $14,000,000 in federal funding to provide families and businesses in rural communities across Texas with access to high-speed broadband. 

The funds were primarily used to install fiber optic cable to provide access to high-speed internet. Roughly 47 miles of fiber optic cable was installed in Las Lomas, connecting the Santa Teresita Community Center. The project will also provide broadband to 423 homes in Las Penitas y Los Botines, 50-75 businesses in Hachar Business Park, and a local fires station in Simeon Park.

The project completions come at a critical juncture as broadband connectivity is now essential in all communities due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The federal investments I am announcing today ensure many of our businesses and communities have sufficient access to robust and reliable broadband which has become essential for businesses, schools, and healthcare providers,” said Congressman Cuellar. “By helping private and non-profit providers, like Alenco, secure the necessary funding, our communities can become connected through a seamless nationwide telecommunications network. I thank all of our partners here, and commit to our continued work to ensure all of south Texas has access to reliable broadband connectivity.”

“In today’s world, technology plays an important role in the world of communications. The pandemic proved that,” said Commissioner Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina. “I am a strong believer that education is the key that opens all doors in life. So bringing broadband to rural areas is definitely much needed for the children to continue their studies, especially for higher education. Thank you, Congressman Cuellar for always fighting for Webb County.”

The estimated project costs, confirmed by USDA and Alenco, are provided below:

Las Penitas and Los Botines: $1.9 million
Las Lomas: $2.5 million
Simeon Park: $193,000
Hachar Park: $80,000

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