Improvements to cell towers will be coming to Dunklin County after the announcement of $12 million in statewide grants to expand service.
The funds will be used to construct new towers that provide better quality cell service and greater 911 connectivity, according to a press release from the Department of Economic Development.
“Expanding cellular connectivity statewide remains a top priority for both public safety and economic growth,” said Gov. Mike Parson. “We’re proud to continue making historic investments in critical infrastructure like cellular service to build a stronger future for Missouri. These grant awards will make a positive difference by expanding cellular service for thousands of Missourians.”
The money will fund 29 total projects, including one from New Cingular Wireless PCS. The company will receive $3.2 million to complete 14 projects across 18 counties, including Dunklin.
Branch Towers VI and USCOC of Greater Missouri will receive the remaining approximately $8.8 million for a total of 15 projects across 26 additional counties.
Dunklin is the only county named in this area as part of the projects.
Projects receiving funds are expected to serve more than 17,000 high-need locations that previously lacked quality cellular service, according to the state. The program, administered by DED’s Office of Broadband Development, was launched in May 2023 and awarded competitive grants to applicants who also contributed private funding in addition to grant funds. Each awarded project will result in the construction of one cellular tower, for a total of 29 new towers built statewide.
“Quality cellular connections are a necessity for businesses, communities, and families alike,” said Michelle Hataway, acting director of the Department of Economic Development. “To achieve a safer, more prosperous future for our state, wireless infrastructure must be improved. We’re proud to partner with recipients of this grant program to help Missourians prosper by expanding connectivity statewide.”
DED will open a second round of funding through the Cell Towers Grant Program beginning Oct. 20. Of the original $20 million appropriated by Parson and the General Assembly, $7.9 million will be available for eligible providers and tower owners for the construction of new towers.
“We’re excited to help meet needs for cellular service through the Cell Towers Grant Program,” said BJ Tanksley, director of the Office of Broadband Development. “While progress has been made, reliable connectivity remains a major challenge for many hard-to-serve areas across our state. We encourage involvement in the program’s second round as we continue toward our goal of connecting all Missourians.”