On Thursday, Council Delegate Brenda Jesus, community leaders, Navajo Nation officials, and representatives from Navajo Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA) and Choice Broadband gathered at the Oak Springs Chapter House to celebrate the completion of the new Oak Springs communications tower to expand broadband access and improve telecommunications services for residents in the region.
Delegate Jesus, who represents the area and serves as Chair of the Resources and Development Committee, emphasized the importance of continued investment in telecommunications infrastructure to improve quality of life for Navajo families, students, entrepreneurs, and elders.
“Let’s continue to work together and strive to better the quality of life for our people here, not just in Oak Springs and Pine Springs, but across the Navajo Nation,” Delegate Jesus said.
The tower project was developed through a partnership involving the Oak Springs Chapter, NTUA, Choice Broadband, the Navajo Nation Council, and the Office of the President and Vice President. The infrastructure will provide fixed broadband services and support future telecommunications expansion in the area.
Former Oak Springs Chapter President Ben Smith reflected on the years of planning, community outreach, and coordination required to bring the project to fruition. He recalled the challenges students and families faced when seeking internet access and described the tower’s completion as a significant step forward for future generations.
NTUA Deputy General Manager of Communications Brian Thomason said the project builds upon NTUA’s growing fiber-optic network and ongoing efforts to close the digital divide across the Navajo Nation.
Following remarks from community, tribal, and utility leaders, attendees participated in a ceremonial ribbon cutting to mark the tower’s official opening. The project is expected to strengthen connectivity and create new opportunities for residents in Oak Springs and surrounding communities.
