State and local leaders joined ConnectLA, community members, and Optimum at Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School on Friday, March 20th, to celebrate a broadband expansion project bringing reliable, high-speed fiber internet to communities across Jackson Parish.

The project has expanded broadband availability to over 2,000 homes and businesses, strengthening digital infrastructure in areas that previously lacked dependable connectivity and supporting greater access to education, healthcare, workforce participation, and economic opportunity. The expansion was supported by Louisiana’s GUMBO 1.0 program, part of the state’s broader strategy to accelerate broadband deployment and close remaining connectivity gaps across rural and underserved communities.

State officials emphasized that reliable broadband access has become essential infrastructure for rural communities.

“Louisiana is showing the nation that broadband expansion can move quickly when government focuses on delivering results. I’m grateful to President Trump and our Louisiana congressional delegation for their partnership in ensuring federal broadband investments reach the communities that need them most. Projects like this one in Jackson Parish demonstrate how strong leadership and collaboration can bring high-speed internet to rural families and businesses.” – Gov. Jeff Landry

“Reliable internet access is essential for modern learning. Expanding broadband access in Jackson Parish helps ensure students can complete assignments, access digital resources, and stay connected to their teachers. Investments like this support stronger schools and better outcomes for Louisiana students.” – Dr. Cade Brumley, State Superintendent of Education

As part of this network investment, Optimum has donated $5,000 through its partnership with national education nonprofit DonorsChoose to the Jackson Parish School District.

“The resounding sound of Jackson Parish is that the expansion of internet services in rural areas is beneficial for the advancement of education, businesses, and public safety. Thank you to Optimum and Connect LA for their generous donation and time.”– Ms. Danielle Copeland, J-HES Principal

The funds will help provide essential tools, technologies and materials to support educational initiatives for students and teachers and reinforce Optimum’s commitment to investing in the communities it serves.

“At Optimum, we are committed to connecting communities and empowering progress through reliable, high-speed internet. We are proud to partner with state and local leaders to bring advanced broadband services to Jackson Parish, supporting local businesses, students and families and helping bridge the digital divide. Our network investment and our donation to Jackson Parish School District reflect our ongoing dedication to strengthening the communities we serve and ensuring Louisiana residents and businesses have access to the opportunities that broadband connectivity provides in today’s digital world.” – Sean O’Connell Senior Vice President & Regional General Manager, Optimum

Area legislators pointed to the broadband expansion as an important investment in the future of Jackson Parish.

“Access to reliable internet is critical for the future of rural communities like ours. This expansion helps ensure Jackson Parish families, businesses and students have the connectivity they need to learn, work and grow right here at home.” – State Rep. Jack McFarland

“Strong communities depend on strong infrastructure. Expanding reliable broadband access in Jackson Parish will support local businesses, strengthen our schools and create new opportunities for families across the region.” – State Sen. Jay Luneau

“For many communities in North Louisiana, reliable internet access has been out of reach for far too long. Projects like this help close that gap and make sure families, schools and local businesses in Jackson Parish are not left behind as technology continues to shape how we live and work.” – State Sen. Jay Morris

Leaders also noted that projects like the Jackson Parish expansion represent continued momentum in Louisiana’s statewide effort to close the digital divide and expand high-speed internet access to communities across the state.

“Every project like this brings Louisiana closer to full connectivity. By working alongside providers like Optimum and local leaders, we are ensuring communities across Louisiana have access to the reliable broadband infrastructure needed to support long-term growth.” – Veneeth Iyengar Executive Director of ConnectLA

Projects like this reflect Louisiana’s continued progress, expanding high-speed internet access and closing the digital divide across rural and underserved communities.

Visit the ConnectLA website to learn more

About ConnectLA

The Louisiana Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity (ConnectLA) leads the state’s efforts to expand high-speed internet access and close the digital divide. Housed within the Louisiana Division of Administration, ConnectLA works across federal, state and local partners to identify and implement strategies that ensure every resident can benefit from reliable broadband connectivity.

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