State and local leaders joined ConnectLA in Woodworth to mark the completion of a broadband expansion project that will bring high-speed internet access to hundreds of households and businesses in Rapides Parish.

Provided by Optimum, the project connects 865 households and 68 businesses in areas that previously lacked reliable service. The expansion is part of the Granting Underserved Municipalities Broadband Opportunities (GUMBO) 1.0 program, an initiative aimed at achieving full broadband coverage across Louisiana.

Gov. Jeff Landry said continued investment in broadband infrastructure is critical for rural communities and credited federal and congressional support for helping make projects like this possible.

Veneeth Iyengar, executive director of ConnectLA, said the project reflects the state’s broader mission to ensure every community has access to quality broadband. He noted that more than 90 percent of Louisiana is now covered, with the state on track to close the digital divide by 2028 or sooner.

Area legislators emphasized the project’s long-term impact on residents and economic development. State Sen. Heather Cloud described high-speed internet as an essential utility that will improve daily life, while State Rep. Michael T. Johnson said the investment will support families, students and employers. State Rep. Jason DeWitt added that expanding broadband access helps drive job growth, innovation and opportunity across the region.

Sean O’Connell, senior vice president and regional general manager at Optimum, said the company remains committed to expanding reliable, high-speed internet to underserved communities and supporting local growth.

The project is funded through the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Capital Projects Fund and administered by ConnectLA.