The third-largest county in the U.S. — Harris County, Texas — is partnering with a nonprofit organization that specializes in high-tech planning, to develop a plan for the county’s broadband infrastructure. The plan is expected to help Harris County remain competitive for federal and state broadband funding opportunities.
The announcement today was made by Harris County Universal Services (HCUS), the solutions partner for residents, departments, and offices of Harris County, and US Ignite, a national nonprofit with technical expertise in connectivity and technology innovation. Their initiative mirrors a trend among local governments to view internet access as critical infrastructure.
Harris County’s population is estimated to be approximately five million people, making it the most populous county in Texas and the third-most populous county in the U.S. Its county seat is Houston.
The plan for Harris County will include a roadmap for expanding internet connectivity. By using the plan to improve access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, the county said it hopes to close its digital divide, promote innovation, and support the needs of its residents and businesses.
“US Ignite’s expertise in broadband planning, technology evaluation, and funding strategies will help us develop a broadband plan that is both ambitious and actionable,” said Sindu Menon, chief information officer and executive director of Harris County Universal Services. “Reliable high-speed Internet is no longer a luxury — it’s necessary for economic opportunity.”
US Ignite will review the Texas county’s broadband plan to ensure it aligns with best practices and supports goals for internet access, infrastructure, affordability, governance and innovation.
The plan’s adaptability to technological changes, policy shifts, and challenges also will be evaluated, with input from local stakeholders. A key focus will be consistent broadband expansion, prioritizing affordability and accessibility for all communities. US Ignite is expected to deliver the broadband plan to Harris County officials in May 2025.
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are becoming increasingly common methods for approaching digital projects, especially broadband expansion. Although the strategic partnership between Harris County, Texas and US Ignite doesn’t necessarily fit all the parameters of a PPP, it has similar potential to leverage the unique strengths of each partner to strengthen the county’s broadband infrastructure.
