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Bastrop County will soon see expanded and improved internet service options following a $43 million state-backed grant.
Earlier this year, the Texas Broadband Development Office awarded the county a Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas (BOOT II) grant to expand broadband access across rural and underserved areas. Highline, a fiber- to-premise provider, will build the network and contribute an additional $11 million in matching funds.
In total, the project will extend fiber service to 10,471 locations, a rollout county officials say will boost small business growth, remote learning and daily connectivity.
“This significant inves tment cement s Bastrop County’s commitment to closing the digital divide,” said Adena Lewis, the county’s director of tourism and economic development. “Access to reliable, high-speed internet is vital for education, healthcare, business and community well-being.”
The award caps several years of collaboration among county leaders, nonprofits and regional partners, including Bastrop County Cares, St. David’s Foundation, Communities Unlimited, LCRA, Connected Nation and the county’s economic development office.
“This total investment isn’t just about internet service — it’s about opportunity. Expanding broadband countywide will ensure our students can learn, our businesses can grow and our residents can stay connected in an increasingly digital world,” Precinct 4 Commissioner David Glass said in a statement.
Bastrop County is one of 13 counties to receive funding in the second round of BOOT II awards. The statewide initiative totals more than $701 million and aims to bring broadband service to more communities across Texas.
Construction is already underway, and full deployment is expected by the end of 2026. The fiber-optic network will deliver symmetrical gigabit speeds with room for future upgrades.
